Introducing the Former Kacho-no-Miya Residence

This video, titled "Introduction to the Former Kacho-no-Miya Residence" (華頂宮邸の紹介), was released by "Crystal Palace Exposition" (水晶宮博覧会). The video introduces the Former Kacho-no-Miya Residence of Kamakura City in Kanagawa Prefecture.

The residence is not only registered as a Tangible Cultural Property of Japan (Architecture), but has also been chosen as one of Japan’s "Top 100 Historical Gardens," and one of Kamakura’s "Top 3 Western-style Buildings."
The elegant and beautiful appearance of the residence has led to it being the filming site for various television productions.
In this article, we'll introduce the history and charms of the Former Kacho-no-Miya Residence.

The History of the Former Kacho-no-Miya Residence

Source :YouTube screenshot

The Former Kacho-no-Miya Residence was built by Prince Kacho Hirotsune (博経親王), the 12th prince of the Fushiminomiya (伏見宮邦家) family, a branch of the imperial family.
The current owner is Kacho Hirokazu (華頂博一).

The branches of the imperial family formed in 1868 ceased to exist in the Taisho era, but the Kacho house continued to hold Shinto ceremonies.
The original residence is said to have been in located in Mita, Minato, Tokyo.
Now, a kindergarten can be found in that area.
The residence shown in the video was moved to its current location in Kamakura in 1929.

The Charms of the Former Kacho-no-Miya Residence

Source :YouTube screenshot

You can find the Former Kacho-no-Miya Residence behind Hokokuji Temple (鎌倉報国寺), which is famous for its bamboo garden.
The three-story wooden residence has a charming Western retro atmosphere.
As seen from 2:58 in the video, a French garden and various tearooms are located on the premises. There are many other spots to explore as well.

In the spring, the weeping cherry trees burst into bloom, and in autumn, the leaves change to beautiful shades of red and yellow.
The interior of the residence is only opened to the public twice a year, once in spring and once in autumn. Be sure to check the opening days before planning your visit.

Summary of the Former Kacho-no-Miya Residence

Source :YouTube screenshot

This residence is a must-visit if you're making a trip to Kamakura. Other recommendations in Kamakura include the Ichijo Ekan Sanso House (一条恵観山荘), Jomyoji Temple (浄妙寺), Zuisenji Temple (瑞泉寺), and Sugimoto Temple (杉本寺).
There are many popular lunch spots in Kamakura as well, so be sure to take your time and enjoy sightseeing!

◆Former Kacho-no-Miya Residence Facility Overview◆
【Address】2-6-37, Jomyoji 2-chome, Kamakura City, Kanagawa
【Access】A 35-minute walk from JR Kamakura Station, or a 4-minute walk from the Jomyoji (浄明寺) bus stop from JR Kamakura Station.
【Admission Fee】Free
【Hours】April to September: 10:00-16:00
October to March: 10:00-15:00
【Closures】Mondays and Tuesdays
【Parking】None
【Phone】0467-61-3477

【Tripadvisor】Former Kacho-no-Miya Residence
https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g303156-d6897781-Reviews-Old_Kachonomiya_House-Kamakura_Kanagawa_Prefecture_Kanto.html