Key Facts
• Historic Kiuchi Villa, built by politician Shigeshirō Kiuchi (1866–1925), opens tower.
• Public access to the villa’s reconstructed second floor and tower starts Nov. 27.
• Free entry available until Dec. 7, 2025.
• Villa originally constructed between 1912–1914, blending Japanese and Western styles.
• Reconstructed villa donated to Ichikawa City in 2004 after 1999 demolition.
• Features include reinforced concrete, partial wood structure, and original materials.
• First floor serves as “Kiuchi Gallery” for exhibitions; upper floors previously unused.
• Guided rooftop tours on Nov. 30 and Dec. 7; lecture on Dec. 6 by architect Yoshitaka Watanabe.
• Events require prior registration via Ichikawa Cultural Center (047-379-5111).
• Shigeshirō Kiuchi’s family ties include connections to Mitsubishi founder and Eiichi Shibusawa’s lineage.
Summary
The historic Kiuchi Villa in Ichikawa, Chiba, built by politician Shigeshirō Kiuchi during the Taisho era, is opening its reconstructed second floor and tower to the public for the first time. This rare architectural gem, blending Japanese and Western styles, offers a glimpse into early 20th-century modernity. Visitors can enjoy free entry from November 27 to December 7, 2025, with special rooftop tours and a lecture on Chiba’s modern architecture scheduled. The villa, reconstructed after its 1999 demolition, retains original materials and now serves as a cultural hub. Registration is required for events, highlighting the villa’s historical and architectural significance.
