The Maeda House is another piece of England in Tokyo
I discovered the Maeda House on Google Maps in 2020. While looking for places to photograph in Meguro ward, I spotted it in Komaba Park. It piqued my interest. Was it something like the beautiful Josiah Conder Kyu-Furukawa mansion? I researched it. It could be another subject for architectural photography.
The pictures that popped up were of an English-looking mansion of Tudor style. I’d never seen nor heard of it. The house intrigued me. I spent the day on the internet researching its history.
Why shoot the Maeda House in black and white?
I wanted to concentrate on the architecture. The interior is bright in places. Can you believe one room is decked out in purple? Color can be distracting. Let’s get rid of it.
A Brief History of the Maeda House
As the name suggests, the house was home to the Maeda family. They were an influential family during the Edo period. Its leader, Toshinari, was a member of the aristocracy and a military man who had served in England.
He built a multi-storied and luxurious house in 1929 with his enormous resources. It had many rooms, even for the staff. Toshinari often entertained his colleagues. I imagine it was a hive of activity.
The house’s grounds are large. In spring, its cherry blossoms should brighten things up. Next to the main building is a Japanese teahouse. It has undergone restoration projects over the years. Much of the original workmanship remains.
House Tour
Yes, the main building has a tour. It takes about forty minutes. The guides speak only Japanese. I joined one to check the house out and learn something. The easy pace allowed that.
If you don’t want to join the tour, that’s okay. Walk around by yourself. That’s the better option if photography is your priority. Whatever you choose, take your shoes off at the entrance. The receptionist will give you a plastic bag to carry them.
Where is the Maeda House in Tokyo?
Address: Komaba 4-3-55, Meguro City, Tokyo (this address is correct, but it doesn’t work on Google Maps).
Here it is on a Google map:
Closest train station:
Komaba-Todaimae Station on the Keio-Inokashira line. It’s about a ten-minute walk to the house.
Entrance fees
None
Opening hours
Maeda House is open from 9 AM to 4:30 PM. (with the last entry at 4 PM). It is closed on Mondays and from December 29 to January 3. If a holiday falls on Monday, it will open but closed the following day.
Conclusion
If you like architectural photography or Japanese history, this building is excellent. I only saw some areas of the main house in 2020. The house was impressive. I bet its garden’s cherry blossoms look incredible in spring. That’s something to look forward to.
Do you enjoy this type of subject? If yes, put Josiah Conder’s Kyu-Furukawa and Kyu-Iwasaki Gardens on your to-see list, too. England is in Tokyo!
In 2021, I went to the Maeda House again to photograph it in color. See the article here. Leave questions and comments below.
Rohan Gillett
Rohan has lived in Tokyo for 30+ years. He loves photography and plans to capture the entire city.
Here are more architecture articles:
External articles about the Maeda House
- Maeda House (official website)