During the Edo period, Niigata City was the most prosperous port on the Sea of Japan coast as a port of call for Kita-mae-bune ships (cargo ships of that time). The Former Saito Villa was built in the Taisho period by Kijuro, the fourth generation of the Saito family, who managed the Kita-mae-bune ships, and was counted among Niigata’s three major financial conglomerates. This space, which combines a stroll-style pond garden that skillfully incorporates the sand dune topography with an open, modern Japanese-style building, speaks of the prosperity of Niigata, which was also known as the “City of Willows”, and allows you to experience the hospitality culture that was nurtured in the port city.
Currently, it is designated as a National Place of Scenic Beauty, and as a port of call
for Kita-mae-bune ships, it has also been recognized as a constituent cultural property of Japan Heritage. From the large hall on the first floor, you can look out over the garden while enjoying Japanese tea.