Former Takatori Residence

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Former Takatori Residence

A luxe estate with modern Japanese flair, still remaining since its keeping in the Meiji Era by a wealthy coal miner.

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The Former Takatori Residence sits along the seashore by Karatsu Castle. It was originally the state of Koreyoshi Takatori, the wealthy owner of the Kirishima Coal Mine and others who was nicknamed the Coal Mining King of Hizen. The estate was built in 1905 with a residence and guesthouse, on and expansive grounds of 2,300 tsubo (roughly 7,603 square meters) that now houses the grand hall and sitting room.

Inside you’ll find a colorful spread of Japanese style architecture made state-of-the-art in its heyday, and an emphasis of Japanese aesthetic dotted by western influences. Along the way you’ll even find an element by Iyo, who loved Noh theatre, of a full wooden Noh stage in the large hall and other eclectic design choices.

One remarkable site is the 72 cedar door panels, an art installation created by a Kyoto artists who stayed in residence at the estate for half a year to complete his 29 varieties of paintings, including wisteria, wild cherry blossoms and more. Embellished with beautiful details worthy of a museum, this space is dotted with embossed plants and die-cute animals across the ranma, and even cloisonne ware metalworking on the metal handles.

Enjoy a relaxed strolled across the grounds, seeing into the luxurious life of a coal mining tycoon in his heyday. In 1998 the estate was designated a National Important Cultural Property.

Highlights

  • Just a 10 min. walk from Karatsu Castle makes this a perfect stop to pair with your trip.
  • Feast your eyes on the 72 different cedar door panels, depicting deep nature and flora.
  • The Noh Theatre inside the estate is a site you won’t want to miss.
  • Take it all in as your step through this fascinating estate, furnished down to the most minute of details.

Photos

  • The ornate beauty of the Noh Stage.

    The ornate beauty of the Noh Stage.

  • Western style room, complete with an Art Nouveau chandelier

    Western style room, complete with an Art Nouveau chandelier

  • View from the expansive windows

    View from the expansive windows

  • A heritage blend of western and Japanese architecture, designated as a National Important Cultural Property.

    A heritage blend of western and Japanese architecture, designated as a National Important Cultural Property.

  • The estate, restored to its full glory as it appeared in 1918.

    The estate, restored to its full glory as it appeared in 1918.

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Details

Name in Japanese
旧高取邸
Postal Code
847-0015
Address
5-40 Kitajonai, Karatsu City, Saga
Telephone
0955-75-0289
Closed
Mondays (or following day if it falls on a National Holiday), Dec. 29th- Jan. 3rd.
Business Hours
9:30am-5:00pm (Admission allowed until 4:30pm)
Admission
Adults: 520yen, Elementary/Middle-School Students: 260yen, children below school age: free
Access
from JR Karatsu Station on the Chikuhi/Karashi Line, walk 15 min. to arrive.
Credit Cards
Not accepted
Official Website
Official Website (Japanese)