🗺️ Yanghui Villa揚輝荘

Yōkizō is a villa conceived by Itō Jirōzaemon Suimin, built during the Taisho to early Showa period. He was also the first president of the well-known Nagoya department store, Matsuzakaya. Located on the hills of Kakuwan, it is regarded as a representative work of modern suburban villas in Nagoya, with the existing five buildings designated as tangible cultural properties of Nagoya City. Since the area is a famous moon-viewing spot, it was named "Yōkizō" after a line from a Chinese poem: "Spring waters fill the four marshes, summer clouds gather on strange peaks, autumn moon shines brightly, winter ridges boast solitary pines." At the time of its construction, it covered an area of 10,000 tsubo, utilizing the undulating terrain to create pond and garden landscapes that showcase the beauty of harmony with the surrounding nature. It is said that at its peak, there were as many as 30 buildings of architectural and historical significance. Itō Jirōzaemon Suimin was not only an active businessman and figure in the financial world but also actively participated in social activities such as international exchange. Therefore, Yōkizō also served as a guesthouse and social venue for people from various fields and cultural figures. Additionally, it was used as a dormitory for Asian international students.

Nagoya's famous department store──the villa built by the first president of Matsuzakaya. It also serves as a guesthouse and social venue for people from various fields and cultural figures. The beautiful Japanese garden, designed to take advantage of the undulating terrain, allows visitors to experience the natural beauty of the four seasons.