The Old Saito Residence

This grand house was built in 1918 as a family villa by Kijuro Saito IV, a scion of the Saito family, which was one of Niigata’s three wealthiest industrialist families. The strolling garden, which makes best use of the sandy terrain, and the open and airy architecture of the building, which is said to be an excellent example of modern Japanese design, are cultural asserts that speak of the prosperity of Niigata in the 1910s and 1920s when it was a booming port and commercial city. The residence is also designated as a national scenic spot.In autumn the contrasting colours of the green pine trees and red Japanese maple leaves bring the garden to life, which is also illuminated during the autumn season to show the garden and its autumn foliage to best advantage.