Ichijo Ekkan Villa (Kanagawa Prefecture) Complete Guide | Charm and Highlights of a Nationally Designated Important Cultural Property Relocated from Kyoto
Nestled in the quiet Jomyoji area of Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecture, Ichijo Ekkan Villa is a nationally designated important cultural property—an imperial family retreat originally built in Kyoto during the early Edo period that was relocated to Kamakura in 1959 (Showa 34). With its simple thatched roof exterior, elegant interior spaces, and beautifully harmonized gardens that change with the seasons, this hidden gem of Kamakura captivates many visitors.
This article comprehensively covers everything you should know before visiting Ichijo Ekkan Villa, from its historical background and architectural highlights to its seasonal garden beauty, access methods, and visiting information.
About Ichijo Ekkan Villa | An Imperial Retreat with 370 Years of History
The Person Ichijo Ekkan
Ichijo Ekkan (1605-1672) was born as the ninth imperial prince of Emperor Goyozei and was a noble figure who served as Sessho (Regent) and Kanpaku (Chief Advisor)—the highest positions at court. He was adopted into the Ichijo family, one of the Five Regent Houses, and established himself as a high-ranking court noble.
Ekkan was known not only as a statesman but also as a cultured person, possessing deep knowledge of the tea ceremony and architecture. This villa is said to have involved Ekkan’s own design, with his aesthetic sense and refinement reflected throughout.
The History of Relocation from Kyoto to Kamakura
Ichijo Ekkan Villa was originally a detached building of the Ichijo family’s country residence, built in Nishi-Shiga, Kyoto during the early Edo period. This building, constructed approximately 370 years ago, served as an imperial family retreat and passed through many seasons in Kyoto.
In 1959 (Showa 34), this historic structure, along with garden stones and lanterns, was relocated to Jomyoji in Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecture. During the relocation process, meticulous care was taken to faithfully reproduce the building’s structure and design, successfully reviving its Kyoto appearance on Kamakura soil.
By being relocated to Kamakura, a historic land, Ichijo Ekkan Villa was given new life and is now cherished by many people as one of Kanagawa’s representative historic structures.
Value as a Nationally Designated Important Cultural Property
Ichijo Ekkan Villa has been designated as an important cultural property by the nation, having its historical and architectural value recognized. As an early Edo period imperial family retreat, it serves as a valuable record of the culture and building techniques of the imperial court of that era.
Despite its rustic thatched-roof exterior, the interior features refined design elements, embodying a unique aesthetic sensibility of “harmony between elegance and rusticity.” This contrast is the villa’s most distinctive feature and enhances its value as a cultural property.
Architectural Highlights | The Spatial Beauty of Merged Elegance and Rusticity
The Aesthetic Beauty of the Thatched Roof Exterior
Your first impression of Ichijo Ekkan Villa is its simple thatched roof. At first glance, the rustic country-style construction appears modest, but it is precisely a manifestation of Ekkan’s aesthetic sense. Though an imperial retreat, it eschewed extravagance and prioritized harmony with nature in its design philosophy.
A thatched roof requires periodic re-thatching using traditional methods, demanding sophisticated techniques and considerable labor for its maintenance. The fact that this traditional craft is preserved even in modern times is significant from the perspective of cultural property protection.
Refined Interior Design Elements
In contrast to the simple exterior, the interior spaces feature delicate design work. Attention to detail can be seen throughout—in the alcove arrangement, transom woodwork, and sliding door handles.
Particularly noteworthy is the consideration given to lighting and ventilation. The window placement and opening design allow natural light and air from each season to flow into the rooms, creating a sense of unity with nature. This reflects design philosophy influenced by tea house architecture, speaking to Ekkan’s deep knowledge of the tea ceremony.
Interior viewing is available by advance reservation on designated days, and those planning a visit are advised to check the official website for the latest information.
Early Edo Period Building Techniques
Ichijo Ekkan Villa’s construction showcases excellent techniques from the early Edo period. The method of joining columns and beams, traditional wood-joining techniques that avoid using nails, and the overall sense of balance of the structure all demonstrate the advanced skills of period master carpenters.
During relocation, these traditional techniques were respected, and original building materials were used wherever possible. The patina of wood that has endured over 370 years, combined with the continuation of the techniques that support it, conveys the excellence of Japanese traditional architecture to the modern era.
Seasonal Garden Beauty | Experiencing Japan’s Seasons with All Five Senses
Spring Greenery and Blossoms
Spring at Ichijo Ekkan Villa stands out for the beauty of fresh green foliage. Trees awakening from winter’s slumber burst with buds, and the entire garden is enveloped in the vibrant green of abundant life.
Various flowering trees are planted throughout the garden, with plum blossoms, cherry blossoms, camellias, and other flowers marking spring’s arrival in sequence. The delicate fragrance of early spring plum blossoms adds refined color to the quiet garden.
This is also the season when the murmuring of Namerikawa Stream and the songs of wild birds become particularly active, allowing you to sense spring’s arrival through more than just sight.
Early Summer Hydrangea Colors
By June, the garden enters the hydrangea season. Ichijo Ekkan Villa’s garden is planted with many hydrangeas, which display beautiful flowers during the rainy season.
During the hydrangea period (June 1-30), a special admission fee of 1,000 yen applies, a price well justified by the spectacular scenery. Hydrangeas in various colors—blue, purple, pink, and white—adorn the thatched-roof building, creating a fantastical atmosphere together with moss wet from rain.
Kamakura is known as a hydrangea destination, but Ichijo Ekkan Villa is relatively uncrowded, making it a popular hidden gem for enjoying hydrangeas at leisure.
Autumn’s Crimson Brocade
Autumn is when Ichijo Ekkan Villa displays its most vibrant appearance. The garden’s trees transform to red, yellow, and orange hues, creating a splendid landscape referred to as “autumn’s crimson brocade.”
The gradation created by various tree species—Japanese maples, maples, and ginkgos—is truly nature’s artwork. The contrast between the rustic thatched-roof building and the brilliantly colored foliage captivates all who visit.
The autumn foliage period also qualifies as a special period with admission at 1,000 yen. Among Kamakura’s famous autumn foliage spots, this is particularly praised for its beauty and is popular with photography enthusiasts. The peak season typically falls from late November to early December.
Winter’s Serenity and Snowy Landscape
Winter at Ichijo Ekkan Villa offers a serene and charming landscape to enjoy. Bare tree branches stand out distinctly, allowing you to observe the garden’s skeletal beauty.
While snow rarely falls in Kamakura, if you’re fortunate enough to visit on a snowy day, you can witness the spectacular sight of snow-covered thatched roofing. The snow-laden garden displays an understated beauty reminiscent of ink wash painting, evoking profound emotion in visitors.
Even in winter’s cold, evergreen red pines and moss continue to live, demonstrating the vitality that makes the Japanese garden’s ever-changing seasonal appeal so compelling.
The Charm of the Stroll-Style Japanese Garden
Ichijo Ekkan Villa’s garden is designed as a stroll-style Japanese garden. This garden style allows visitors to enjoy varying views from different angles as they walk along the garden pathways.
Stone lanterns, stepping stones, and a pond are arranged throughout the garden, with different scenery unfolding with each step forward. The garden stones and lanterns relocated from Kyoto are of historical significance, each with its own story.
Set against the murmuring Namerikawa Stream, this garden where seasonal plants weave together their beauty offers a healing space that allows you to forget the hustle and bustle of the city. Spending time in leisurely strolls through the garden will reveal the profound beauty of Japanese gardens.
A Blissful Time at the Tea Lodge
Tea Lodge Kyoto Niomon Kamakura Branch
Within the grounds of Ichijo Ekkan Villa, a “Tea Lodge Kyoto Niomon Kamakura Branch” is located. This tea lodge is housed in a modern sukiya-style building where tradition and contemporary design harmonize in an elegant space.
From the tea lodge, you can enjoy seasonal Japanese sweets and matcha tea while taking in the beautiful garden views. The time spent in this special seat overlooking Kamakura’s original landscape is truly blissful.
Seasonal Japanese Sweets and Matcha
The tea lodge serves seasonal sweets that change throughout the year. Spring offers sakura mochi, summer features water-based confections, autumn presents sweets with chestnuts, and winter provides warm confections. The variety of seasonal flavors available is remarkable.
The matcha is served using authentic whisking methods, and its pairing with the sweets is excellent. Taking a break at the tea lodge after your garden stroll creates an even more fulfilling visit.
Tea lodge hours and available menu items may vary by season, so it’s recommended to check the latest information before your visit.
Access Information | Approximately 10 Minutes from Kamakura Station
Access by Train and Bus
Public transportation is recommended for accessing Ichijo Ekkan Villa.
Nearest Station: JR Yokosuka Line “Kamakura Station”
From Kamakura Station:
- Exit from the east exit of Kamakura Station
- Board a bus from Keikyu Bus Platform 4 (approximately 10 minutes)
- Get off at the “Jomyoji” bus stop
- Walk approximately 2 minutes from the bus stop
The Jomyoji area is a quiet residential neighborhood somewhat removed from central Kamakura, where a peaceful environment is maintained. The short walk from the bus stop to the villa allows you to enjoy Kamakura’s characteristic scenic streetscapes.
Parking Information
Ichijo Ekkan Villa has no dedicated parking lot. As the surrounding area is residential, street parking is strictly prohibited. Public transportation is strongly recommended. If you must visit by car, park at a coin parking facility near Kamakura Station and use the bus from there.
Combining with Other Kamakura Sightseeing Spots
The Jomyoji area where Ichijo Ekkan Villa is located offers other points of interest.
- Hokaiji Temple (Bamboo Garden): Approximately 10 minutes on foot. A temple famous for its beautiful bamboo grove
- Jomyoji Temple: Approximately 5 minutes on foot. A prestigious temple ranking fifth among Kamakura’s Five Great Temples
- Sugimoto Temple: Approximately 15 minutes on foot. Kamakura’s oldest temple
Combining these spots into your visit allows you to efficiently explore the eastern Kamakura area. Both the bamboo forest of Hokaiji and the garden of Ichijo Ekkan Villa are particularly appreciated for their natural beauty.
Visiting Information | Hours, Admission Fees, and Closed Days
Basic Information
Address: 5-1-10 Jomyoji, Kamakura, Kanagawa 248-0003
Telephone: 0467-53-7900
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (Final admission 3:30 PM)
Closed: Mondays and Tuesdays, plus days when special events are held
*Please note that general viewing may not be available on certain days due to tea ceremonies or private bookings. It is strongly recommended to check the official website blog for the latest information before your visit.*
Admission Fees
- Regular Season: 700 yen
- Hydrangea Season (June 1-30): 1,000 yen
- Autumn Foliage Season (typically mid-November to early December): 1,000 yen
*Fees are subject to change. Please confirm the latest information on the official website before your visit.*
Interior Viewing
Interior viewing of the nationally designated important cultural property building is conducted on designated days by advance reservation with preference given to reservations. Those wishing to view the interior are advised to check the official website for available viewing dates and make a reservation in advance.
During interior viewing, you can observe up close the refined design elements that Ekkan himself was involved in creating, as well as various aspects that convey the culture of the imperial court of that era.
Best Seasons to Visit and Recommended Times
Best Seasons
While Ichijo Ekkan Villa is beautiful throughout all four seasons, the particularly recommended seasons are:
- Autumn Foliage Season (late November to early December): The most vibrant and colorful landscape
- Hydrangea Season (June): A fantastical atmosphere evoking the mood of the rainy season
- Fresh Greenery Season (April-May): Refreshing landscape bursting with vitality
While winter’s serene atmosphere is also appealing, first-time visitors are recommended to come during spring through autumn when plants are at their most beautiful.
Recommended Times of Day
The morning hours shortly after opening at 10 AM are relatively uncrowded, allowing you to enjoy the garden leisurely in a quiet atmosphere. On weekday mornings in particular, you may experience the garden nearly to yourself.
The afternoon is an ideal time to enjoy Japanese sweets and matcha at the tea lodge. A flow of garden strolling followed by rest at the tea lodge makes for an ideal visit.
Since the final admission is 3:30 PM, which is earlier than many facilities, planning your visit with sufficient time is recommended.
Photography Tips and Etiquette
Photography Spots
Photography is permitted at Ichijo Ekkan Villa, though there may be restrictions on tripod use or commercial photography. Please confirm with staff at the time of your visit.
Recommended photography spots:
- Full View of Thatched Roof and Garden: The entrance area offers a panoramic view of the building and garden
- Autumn Foliage and Building Contrast: A limited-season spectacular
- Moss and Stone Lanterns: A composition evoking Japanese garden aesthetics
- Garden View from Tea Lodge: The framing creates beautiful photographs
Visiting Etiquette
Ichijo Ekkan Villa is a nationally designated important cultural property located in a quiet residential neighborhood. Please observe the following etiquette during your visit:
- Avoid loud conversation and view the property quietly
- Do not touch plants or buildings
- Stay on designated pathways
- Take any trash with you
- Be considerate of neighboring residents
- Food and beverages are only permitted at the tea lodge
It is important that everyone visiting demonstrates awareness in preserving this cultural property and nature so that their beauty can be passed on to future generations.
Nearby Sightseeing Spots and Suggested Itineraries
The Appeal of the Jomyoji Area
The Jomyoji area, where Ichijo Ekkan Villa is located, is particularly quiet and serene even by Kamakura standards. It differs significantly from the crowded station area, with a relaxed pace of life.
Historic temples and shrines dot this area, allowing you to experience the deeper charm of Kamakura.
Recommended Half-Day Itinerary
10:00 AM Depart from Kamakura Station east exit by bus
10:15 AM Arrive at Ichijo Ekkan Villa, garden stroll (approximately 60 minutes)
11:15 AM Enjoy Japanese sweets and matcha at the tea lodge (approximately 30 minutes)
12:00 PM Walk to Hokaiji Temple (approximately 10 minutes)
12:10 PM View Hokaiji’s bamboo garden (approximately 40 minutes)
1:00 PM Enjoy matcha at Kokoan of Hokaiji (approximately 30 minutes)
1:30 PM Walk to Jomyoji Temple (approximately 10 minutes)
1:40 PM View Jomyoji Temple (approximately 30 minutes)
2:15 PM Return to Kamakura Station by bus
This itinerary allows you to efficiently visit three spots with distinct appeals: the garden beauty of Ichijo Ekkan Villa, the bamboo forest of Hokaiji, and the formal atmosphere of Jomyoji.
Full-Day Plan Suggestions
After visiting the Jomyoji area in the morning, you may enjoy exploring central Kamakura and the coastal areas in the afternoon.
- Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine: Kamakura’s signature shrine
- Komachi Street: Perfect for food sampling and souvenir hunting
- Hasedera Temple and the Kamakura Great Buddha: Kamakura’s classic western-area attractions
- Yuigahama and Zaimokuza Beaches: Refresh yourself with ocean views
With so much to see in Kamakura, there are always new discoveries on each visit. Use Ichijo Ekkan Villa as your starting point to create your own unique Kamakura sightseeing plan.
Maximizing the Experience at Ichijo Ekkan Villa
Ichijo Ekkan Villa is a hidden gem of Kamakura possessing three distinct appeals: its historical value as a nationally designated important cultural property relocated from Kyoto, the beauty of its architecture merging elegance and rusticity, and its gardens’ seasonal transformations.
Among Kamakura’s many sightseeing spots, Ichijo Ekkan Villa remains relatively uncrowded, offering a precious place to spend time at a leisurely pace. It is recommended for everyone—those wishing to quietly savor Japanese traditional beauty, photography enthusiasts, and those interested in history and architecture.
When planning your visit, check the official website beforehand for opening status and arrange your schedule with time to spare. Then, in this beautiful space with 370 years of history, experience with all five senses the harmony of Japanese traditional culture and nature.
Located in Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecture in the Kanto region, yet offering an experience of Kyoto’s refined culture—Ichijo Ekkan Villa is truly a must-visit during any trip to Kamakura. It is sure to become an unforgettable memory.
