This is a mansion of a wealthy family, with a Western-style house, billiard room, and garden. It's a famous example of Meiji-era architecture.
The former Iwasaki House Garden | Review by Norman Gale
Other Reviews by Norman Gale
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Shimabara Hibariyama Flower Park
A flower park created through collaboration between Shimabara City and private partners on erosion control land designated after the eruption disaster of Mt. Unzen Fugendake. Opened in 2012, it welcomes visitors with colorful flower fields spreading out against the backdrop of Mt. Heisei-Shinzan. In spring, cherry blossoms, weeping cherry blossoms, and Approx. 10 million rapeseed blossoms begin to bloom around late March. Azaleas appear in mid-April, and mixed flowers color the vast grounds from around early May to around late May.
There are different flower fields to enjoy in every season. The tulips and cherry blossoms in spring are absolutely dreamy, and the whole park looks so magical in photos. The air is fresh, the scenery is wide open, and it’s such a great place for a relaxing walk or a date.
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Michi-no-Eki Shichijo Melon Dome
Drive along National Route 325 from Yamaga City towards Minami Aso and the road will open up to three distinctive melon-shaped roofs. This roadside station, known as Michi-no-Eki Shichijo Melon Dome, handles a multitude of local specialties from Shichijo Town and attracts over a million visitors each year.
The whole rest stop is shaped like a melon—it's so cute, you just have to stop and take a photo! The melon desserts and ice cream inside are delicious—sweet and fragrant, totally comforting. You can also buy local produce, so it really has that local flavor. If you're driving by, definitely stop in for some melon treats and souvenirs!
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Jozankei Gensen Park
Jozankei Gensen Park was opened in 2005 on the 200th anniversary of Miizumi Jozan's birth, who was an ascetic monk and is said to have provided the foundation of Jozankei Onsen. On the premises, there is a recreated scene of Jozan finding the hot spring as well as his statue and various hot spring facilities.
There's a foot bath right at the entrance, so you can soak your feet and enjoy the snowy scenery in winter.