Kiunkaku

Built in 1919 (Taisho 8), Kiunkaku is a modern villa and one of Atami's three great villas, alongside the private villas of the Mitsubishi Iwasaki family and the now-lost Sumitomo villa. After World War II, in 1947 (Showa 22), it was transformed into an inn and subsequent favorite of many prominent cultural figures of the Showa era, including Yuzo Yamamoto, Naoya Shiga, Junichiro Tanizaki, Osamu Dazai, Seiichi Funabashi, and Taijun Takeda. This site since 2000 has transferred ownership under the city of Atami and remained today as a cultural and tourist hub.

Step onto the vast grounds of some 3,000 tsubo (approximately 9,900 square meters) to find plenty of sights to see. Traditional Japanese-style buildings "Kirin" and "Taiho" feature pioneering techniques and a simple yet elegant design. The Western-style building "Kongo" boasts a Roman-style bath, while "Tamahime" includes an Art Deco sunroom. These buildings offer a close-up experience of the best of Taisho-era architecture. Additionally, the approximately 1,000-tsubo (approximately 3,300 square meters) strolling garden, with its gentle slopes and pond, offer beautiful seasonal landscapes that soothe the soul.

Bask in the undeniable allure of architecture and gardens and take a break at the teahouse and former bar from its days as an inn. The retro atmosphere and garden views provide an elegant and relaxing break.