Former Ito Den-emon Residence

Chikuho Region used to be the top coal energy provider from Meiji to Showa Periods. The coal mine king, Ito Den-emon built wealth in those periods and his home is preserved and open to the public.

The building was renovated in 1911 when Den-emon, age 50 then, was remarrying a poet, Yanagihara Byakuren (age 25). On the vast 1.9-acre land, four buildings, a home with 25 rooms and three storehouses face a Japanese garden.

Imperial carpenters were invited from Kyoto to craft all the beauty. The Art Nouveau mantle piece, a guest room with British stained glass - the whole mansion in Japanese and western styles is full of artistic techniques in every detail.

The room said to have been built for the Byakuren has a lovely view over the whole Japanese garden. The paper doors decorated with silver foil, the transom made with just bamboo nodes, the alcove with woven wooden ceiling, and various craftsmanship is lavishly employed.

Reflect upon their love story for a moment and tour around the interior.