Guida
The Former Saito Family Villa is an exceptionally beautiful cultural heritage site that symbolizes the history of Niigata. Built during the Taisho era, this residence is renowned as a masterpiece that blends a stroll-style garden—expertly utilizing the natural sand dune topography—with an open, modern Japanese-style architectural design. Once the home of the Saito family, a wealthy merchant family that fueled the prosperity of Niigata, this site is designated as a national scenic spot, inviting visitors to experience the elegance of a bygone era.
This villa was constructed in 1918 (Taisho 7) as a private residence by Kitokichi Saito, the fourth generation of the Saito family, one of Niigata's three major wealthy families. The architecture stands as a symbol of the economic prosperity of Niigata during its time as a thriving port and commercial hub. Following the post-war period and a period of occupation by Allied forces, ownership transferred to the Kagata family in 1953. The estate was carefully preserved as a private residence for many years, but around 2007, a movement involving petitions to the city council and fundraising by local citizens emerged to protect its historical value. As a result, the Niigata City government took ownership in 2009, and it is now open to the public as a precious cultural asset of the citizens.
The greatest appeal lies in the seamless integration of nature and architecture. As you walk through the beautiful stroll garden designed around the sand dune terrain, you can enjoy landscapes that change with every season. The building itself is highly regarded as a masterpiece of modern Japanese-style architecture, characterized by its open and airy structure. Inside the tatami-matted rooms, you can sit at the same eye level as the residents of the Taisho era, gazing out at the scenery with a profound sense of history. The experience of being guided through the garden by the placement of stepping stones (tobishi) is a unique delight that reflects the intentional beauty of the landscape designer.
The villa offers different charms in every season. From spring to summer, the lush greenery and bright sunlight harmonize with the open architecture, creating a refreshing atmosphere. The bright daylight hours are ideal for seeing the vibrant colors of the garden and the play of light within the building. Conversely, during the late afternoon, shadows fall across the structure, creating a more contemplative and serene atmosphere. We recommend observing how the light changes the appearance of the landscape and the seasonal shifts in plant life.
Beyond mere sightseeing, visitors can experience traditional Japanese aesthetics. For instance, sitting in a formal posture (seiza) on the tatami mats while gazing at the garden through the windows offers a luxurious moment to escape daily life. You can also experience the textures of nature through your senses while walking through the garden. Occasionally, local volunteers may provide guidance, allowing you to learn more about the history and culture. Feel as though you are a guest of a wealthy merchant from the Taisho era and enjoy a slow, peaceful time.
The Former Saito Family Villa is located in a central cultural area of Niigata City. The surrounding neighborhood is dotted with various historical and cultural facilities, making it perfect for a cultural stroll. Nearby attractions, such as the Niigata City Museum of Art, allow you to deepen your connection to the culture of Niigata.
To protect this cultural property, please follow certain rules. As much of the interior features tatami mats, we recommend wearing socks to protect the flooring. For walking through the garden, comfortable sneakers are highly recommended over hard-soled shoes or high heels. Large luggage can be stored at the entrance. Smoking and eating/drinking are prohibited on the premises. While photography is permitted, please refrain from using flashes, tripods, selfie sticks, or recording videos to protect the building and respect other visitors. Pets are generally not allowed, with the exception of service dogs.