British Embassy Villa Memorial Park

A scenic park boasting breathtaking views of the tranquil waters of Lake Chuzenji and the lush surrounding mountains. This lakeside area awaits in the full glory of cool climate and abundant nature, still beloved today since its rise to fame as an international summer retreat from the mid-Meiji era to the early Showa period. Many foreign diplomats, including embassies from various countries, built villas here, creating a lively microcosm of cosmopolitan air.

The park’s main building was first constructed in 1896 as a private villa for Ernest Satow, a British diplomat who played a significant role in Japan’s Meiji Restoration. It later served as the British Embassy’s villa until 2008 before being donated to Tochigi Prefecture.

Inside the villa, visitors can explore exhibits on the history of Lake Chuzenji and British culture of the time. From the spacious veranda on the second floor, guests can take in the stunning "picture-perfect landscape" that Satow himself deeply admired. The tearoom "Minami 4-ban Classic" on the second floor offers an authentic British experience, serving scones and tea sets curated by the chef of the British Embassy in Japan.