The estate was originally commissioned as a private retreat and guest house for the Morimoto family.
Several structures within the complex, including the main hall and the 'Choshukaku' tearoom, are registered as national tangible cultural properties.
The garden layout utilizes the natural sloping terrain of the Chikusa area to create views and water features.
The interior design reflects the 'Taisho Romanticism' movement, blending Japanese tatami rooms with Western-style furniture and lighting.
Despite being located in a modern urban district, the grounds maintain a private, sequestered atmosphere through dense landscaping.
Yōkisō is a historic villa and garden complex in Nagoya, built in the 1920s by the industrialist Morimoto Zengoro. The site spans approximately 9,000 square meters and features both traditional Japanese and Western-style architectural elements. It served as a luxurious guesthouse for prominent guests of the era. The estate includes a vast stroll-style garden, ponds, and several designated Tangible Cultural Properties of Japan. Visitors can tour the interior rooms, which highlight the interplay between Taisho-era architectural styles. The site is maintained to preserve the craftsmanship and aesthetic of the wealthy merchant class from the early 20th century.
The veranda (engawa) facing the main koi pond offers the most iconic framing of the villa architecture and gardens.
Wear comfortable, easy-to-slip-off footwear as you will need to remove shoes to enter the interior rooms.
Check the official website for specific building access, as some sections may rotate for conservation purposes.
Bring a camera with a wide-angle lens to capture the unique architectural contrast between the Japanese garden and the villa facade.
Do not attempt to touch the shoji screens or historic wooden surfaces inside the villa.
Closed on Mondays and during the New Year holiday period; if Monday is a national holiday, it may remain open and close the following day.
Remove shoes at the entrance and wear socks; photography inside buildings may be restricted in specific areas, so check for signage.
