Tozanso, located in Nagoya’s Mizuho Ward, is a historic villa that exemplifies early 20th-century Japanese architecture and garden design. Constructed along the Yamazaki River, it has evolved from a private retreat to a cultural asset open to the public.
Construction and Origins Tozanso was built as a private villa by Shinichi Ito, a prosperous cotton fabric merchant, during the Taisho era (1912–1926). The name “Tozanso” translates to “Ito’s Mountain Villa,” reflecting its purpose as a personal retreat. The estate showcases a blend of architectural styles from the Taisho to early Showa periods, featuring traditional Japanese rooms, Western-style reception areas, and tea rooms. The surrounding garden is designed in the ”kaiyu-shiki rinsen” style, a traditional Japanese strolling garden that harmonizes with the natural landscape.
Transition to Nagoya City Ownership Upon Shinichi Ito’s death in 1936, he bequeathed Tozanso to the city of Nagoya with the wish that it be accessible to the public. Honoring his request, the city opened the villa as a public park in 1939. However, due to the impacts of World War II, public access was suspended, and in 1943, Tozanso began serving as the official residence for the mayor of Nagoya. This period marked a shift from its original function as a public space to a governmental facility.
Current Use and Cultural Significance In 1968, Tozanso was reopened to the public, aligning with Ito’s original intent. Today, it functions as a cultural venue, offering tea rooms and Japanese-style rooms for various events and activities. The estate’s architectural and historical value has been recognized through its designation as a Registered Tangible Cultural Property by the national government in 2013. Visitors can explore the garden daily from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, while the interior rooms are available for rent and are not typically open for casual viewing.
How to use Tozanso.
The garden of Tozanso is open to the public from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. However, it is not a tourist attraction, so the signs are only in Japanese. Before exploring the garden, visitors need to go to the on-site office and obtain permission.
The photo above shows the entrance to the office.
A Japanese-style building constructed 100 years ago has been preserved in its original state. However, perhaps because it is open to the public for free, it did not appear to be well-maintained.
The gate doors are quite low in height.
A Japanese garden spreads out before you, surrounded by lush trees. Although this area is a residential neighborhood, it’s interesting that Tozanso alone remains like a forest.
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