“A retreat from the city awaits.” That’s what crossed Kojiro Yokoyama’s mind. Kojiro sought refuge from wartime Tokyo. We’re standing before the \u65e7\u5c0f\u5742\u90b8. This historic residence in Setagaya is a window into old Tokyo.
The \u65e7\u5c0f\u5742\u90b8 was completed in 1938. It served as a second home for Junzo Kosaka. Kosaka was a nobleman. He was also involved in business and politics. The Kosaka family later donated the residence to Setagaya. The city opened it to the public as Koyo 4-chome Old Kosaka Green Space. In 2016, it was renamed Koyo 4-chome Old Kosaka Green Space.
Only the \u65e7\u5c0f\u5742\u90b8 remains standing. It is a testament to a bygone era. Many such villas once dotted the landscape. These villas belonged to political figures and wealthy families. The property sits on the Kokubunji Cliff Line. About half of the land slopes.
Junzo Kosaka was born in Nagano Prefecture in 1881. He held positions at Shinshu Bank and Shinshu Mainichi Shimbun. He also served as a member of the House of Representatives. Kosaka was known as a collector of antique art. His main residence was in Shibuya. It burned down during the war in 1945. After that, he made this villa his primary home.
The L-shaped property has its narrow end to the north. The Kokubunji Cliff Line runs through its center. The house is built on a long, narrow section of elevated land. The main gate faces the road to the north. A back gate is at the southwestern end of the cliff.
Originally, a manager’s residence stood near the main gate. There was also a garage. A driver’s room was also there. These structures were removed in 1996.
The ridgepole bears an inscription. It reads “Raised on October 2, 1937.” The design and construction were by the Shimizu Group. Construction began in July 1937. It was completed in September 1938.
In October 1996, Setagaya Ward purchased the land. It was bought to preserve it as green space. The Kosaka family donated the building. After renovations, it opened to the public. In November 1999, it became a designated cultural property of Setagaya Ward.
There was once a tea room beneath the Kokubunji Cliff Line. It was removed before the donation to the ward. The artist Taikan Yokoyama lived here. He stayed for about three months starting in March 1945. He was seeking refuge from the Tokyo air raids. Kokei, another painter, encouraged Yokoyama to evacuate here.
Today, the Setagaya Trust Association manages the \u65e7\u5c0f\u5742\u90b8. The main house is a single-story wooden structure. Part of it has two stories. The roof is gabled and tiled.
Inside are living rooms and tea rooms. A study adjoins the northwest side of the main building. To the southeast, a corridor extends southward. A two-story bedroom wing stands at the end. A storehouse is halfway down the corridor to the east.
Entering through the north-facing entrance, you’ll see a corridor stretching east and west. To the west is a twelve-and-a-half tatami mat living room. To the east is a ten-mat tea room. West of the entrance is a six-mat small reception room. This also functions as a tea room.
The entrance space has a vaulted ceiling. It displays the traditional framework of the old folk house style. Kosaka family tradition says the beams are made of wood from Okutama.
The twelve-and-a-half-mat living room features an alcove. The ceiling uses Yakusugi cedar. This creates a refined space. The tea room has a latticed transom.
The small reception room is a tea room with a hearth. The alcove is a simplified version with a woven mat floor. The ceiling is made of rush. The toilet is in front of the study on the west side of the corridor. It features octagonal pillars. A separate tea room once stood in the garden. It no longer exists.
The study is in the style of a mountain cottage. It incorporates Western design elements. Red pine is used on the pillars and ceiling. The walls are constructed with black plaster. This creates an air layer known as “bag plastering.”
A bell system in the maid’s room could be activated from various rooms. This was used to call for the maid. The storehouse is a two-story fireproof structure. It has iron doors. It stored art, valuables, and family heirlooms.
The bedroom has a Western-style design. It includes a veranda or sunroom. The ceiling is finished with lacquer. The lighting simulates candlelight. A decorative fireplace adds to the ambiance.
Red maple trees adorn the garden. They evoke the “Okamoto no Koyo.” This is one of the Eight Views of Tamagawa.
In 2011, earthquake-resistant renovations were made. Universal design elements were added, too. These include a new slope and renovated restrooms.
The \u65e7\u5c0f\u5742\u90b8 offers a glimpse into the past. It is a blend of Japanese and Western styles. It reflects the life and tastes of Junzo Kosaka. It provides a tranquil escape in Setagaya Ward. Take your time to explore. Imagine life in this villa during a different era.