The Numazu Imperial Villa Memorial Park (2802-1 Shimokanuki, Numazu, Shizuoka Prefecture), located near Numazu Port, was built in 1893 as the Imperial Villa for the Taisho Emperor to rest and relax.
At one time there were 100 rooms. Unfortunately, the main residence was lost in the Great War, but there is now a folk museum on the site. Several buildings, including the West Annex Residence and the East Annex Residence, are still in their original state.
Interestingly, the building has no gutters, and where the rain falls from the eaves, there is a gravel channel, which seems to have a muffling effect. Also, the glass panes in the corridor windows are handmade at that time, so they are not flat and the landscape appears distorted. When the glass was broken, it was sent to a craftsman in Germany.
The replica of a three-wheeled bicycle that the Emperor Showa rode while he studied here is on display. There is also a refrigerator made of ice from the kitchen, a billiard table, and other items that give one a sense of history. The site is located near the coast, and it is likely that he became a researcher because of his interest in marine life.
After we finished our tour of the building, a volunteer guide showed us around the garden. The Numazu-gaki fence, which is unique to this area, is still being passed down today, and they sometimes hold classes on how to make it. It was a great experience for me to hear interesting stories about the beautiful bronze gate and the use of waterways.
To get there, take a bus from JR Numazu Station, get off at “Goyotei” (Imperial Villa), and it takes about 15 minutes. By car, it takes about 30 minutes from the Numazu IC, and parking is available. According to the staff, the number of visitors is not that large. It is a recommended place to take a quiet stroll and enjoy the atmosphere of the Taisho Showa period.
© Source travel watch