Guida
Seishido and Seifutei are historic architectural sites located in Fukaya City, Saitama Prefecture. Seishido was constructed in 1916 (Taisho 5) to commemorate the 77th birthday of Eiichi Shibusawa, known as the 'Father of Japanese Capitalism,' and is currently designated as a National Important Cultural Property. Adjacent to it, Seifutei was built in 1926 to celebrate the 70th birthday of the President of the Dai-Ichi Bank and is a designated Tangible Cultural Property of Saitama Prefecture. Both buildings were relocated from Seiwa-en in Setagaya, Tokyo, to Fukaya, serving as living witnesses to the history of Japan's modernization.
The name 'Seishido' is derived from a passage in the Confucian classic 'The Doctrine of the Mean': 'Sincerity is the way of Heaven; to practice sincerity is the way of Man.' The building was designed by Junkichi Tanabe, a leading figure in architecture at the time. Seishido was funded by the employees of the Dai-Ichi Bank, deeply connecting the site to the history of Japan's modern financial development. Seifutei, on the other hand, follows a 'Southern European pastoral' concept, showcasing a unique architectural style that was fashionable during that era. These structures are not merely buildings but vital cultural heritages that preserve the legacy of the great Eiichi Shibusawa.
The greatest charm lies in the architectural styles that vividly preserve the atmosphere of the Taisho era. Seishido is designed around the unique concept of a 'Western-style country house,' featuring a highly sophisticated design. Seifutei is a beautiful one-story colonial-style building characterized by white walls and brown brick decorations. The design, featuring arched openings and corridors, evokes the feeling of a Mediterranean villa. The orderly landscape surrounding the buildings and every historical detail reflect the high level of architectural skill and aesthetic sense of that period.
Seishido and Seifutei are open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Visiting during the bright daylight hours allows you to most clearly appreciate the texture of the white walls, the brickwork, and the elegant arched designs. You can enjoy the architectural beauty in a peaceful atmosphere regardless of the season. The atmosphere is particularly refined when the sunlight highlights the elegant details of the buildings. Please note that the site is closed during the New Year holidays (December 29 to January 3).
Here, you can face historical architecture in a state of profound silence. For small group viewings, you can make arrangements at the local reception to enjoy a more tranquil and private experience. The surrounding area is rich in history, with several sites related to Eiichi Shibusawa, such as his birthplace and the Shibusawa Memorial Museum, as well as his former residence, 'Naka-no-Ie.' These sites allow for a deep dive into the local history. You can also observe the intricate interior decorations and the architectural philosophies of the era.
Seishido and Seifutei are located within the grounds of the Oogiri Community Center. The nearby area is dotted with historical buildings related to Eiichi Shibusawa, including his birthplace and the Shibusawa Memorial Museum. Exploring these sites will deepen your understanding of why Fukaya City is known as the 'City of Eiichi Shibusawa.' The site is accessible via Route 17 or from JR Takasaki Line Fukaya Station, making it easy to include in your regional sightseeing itinerary.
As these are historic cultural properties, please be mindful of your footing; comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended. You may bring a camera to observe the architectural details, but please follow local rules regarding photography. While admission to the site is free, it is convenient to have cash or a card ready if you use nearby facilities. Since English-language signage and staff support may be limited, it is recommended to research information in advance.