The spring water at Shimeiso maintains a consistent temperature of approximately 15 degrees Celsius year-round.
The garden pond contains approximately 1,000 tons of spring water daily.
The villa was originally built as a holiday home for the wealthy tea merchant, Shozo Shibata.
The architectural design utilizes traditional Japanese joinery, avoiding the use of iron nails in the primary structure.
The site is designated as a significant cultural asset by the Shimabara municipal government.
Shimeiso is a former villa constructed in the late Taisho period, distinguished by its integration with the natural spring water flowing beneath the Shimabara castle town. The garden features a central pond fed by constant, clear spring water rising from volcanic layers of Mount Unzen. The villa structure is built directly over the water, allowing visitors to view the pond from within the tatami-matted rooms. The property is maintained by the local government as part of Shimabara's 'City of Swimming Carp' initiative. The surrounding area is designed to showcase the traditional water management systems used by local residents for centuries.
From the veranda overlooking the pond with the villa's wooden pillars framing the water and greenery.
Remove your shoes before entering the villa as you will be walking on traditional tatami mats.
Bring a small towel to wipe your feet if you intend to walk on the wooden verandas.
Observe the koi fish closely to see how they navigate the natural currents of the spring.
Look for the small informational plaques near the water intake points to understand the flow system.
Attempting to feed the koi, as the water quality is strictly managed and protected.
Open daily throughout the year; no seasonal closures reported.
Maintain a low voice volume, as the wooden architecture carries sound easily; do not touch the fish or put hands in the water.
