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 started to research it. It could be another subject for architectural photography.
The pictures that popped up were of a very English-looking mansion of Tudor style. I’d never seen nor heard of it. It was intriguing. I went the following day after some quick research and discovering its history.
A Brief History of the Maeda House
As you might have guessed, the house was home to the Maeda family. They were one of the most influential families during the Edo period. Its leader, Toshinari, was a member of the aristocracy and a military man who had served in England. He constructed it in 1929.
With his enormous resources, he built a multi-storied and luxurious house. It has many rooms, even for the staff. Toshinari often entertained his colleagues, so I imagine it was a hive of activity.
The grounds, what remain, are pretty large. They should be lovely in spring when the cherry blossoms bloom. Next to the main building is a Japanese teahouse. Both have undergone restoration projects over the years. Luckily, much of the original workmanship remains.
The Maeda House Tour
Yes, there is a tour of the main building. It takes about forty minutes. The guides speak only Japanese. I joined one to check the house out and learn something. The tour was at a pace that allowed me to do that.
You can also walk around by yourself. That’s the better option if photography is your priority. Whatever you choose, take your shoes off on entry. The receptionist will give you a plastic bag to carry them.
Why did I photograph in black and white?
Well, the building is a subject of architecture. And for that, I needed to strip away the color, which can be distracting. That was necessary because the interior can be very bright in places. Can you believe one room is decked out in purple?
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 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (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. For that 2020 visit, I only photographed some areas of the main house. You can also see it in color here. One day, I hope to photograph its cherry blossoms.
My visit was more of a reconnaissance mission. The house was impressive. If you are into this subject put Kyu-Furukawa and Kyu-Iwasaki Gardens on your to-visit list. They are all pieces of England in Tokyo!
Rohan Gillett
Rohan has lived in Tokyo for 30+ years. He loves photography and okonomiyaki. His camera will capture the entire city one day.
Do you like architecture? Check out these articles:
External articles about the Maeda House
- Maeda House (official website)
Please share this article on social media if you think others would enjoy it.