Tojotei 戸定邸

Architectural fusion, gorgeous garden and views

On a rise above central Matsudo City is Tojo-tei, an architectural gem and historical spot I take my visitors to when we visit the city. This 19th century mansion was built by Tokugawa Akitake who had traveled to Europe in anticipation of becoming the next shogun. But the Meiji Restoration ended the rule of the shoguns, and he retired here to this lovely mansion. The house is not that big, but it's beautifully appointed. The carpentry and hardware are the finest of the era. The garden is a nationally recognized scenic spot for its undulating lawns and mature plantings that epitomize Meiji era gardens. The guides at the house are kind and knowledgable about the history of the house and garden. It's worth taking the time to join a tour of the house to learn its secrets (there are some features that a casual observer wouldn't notice).