Since dockworkers lost their jobs during the wintertime, the head of the fourth generation of the Homma Family, Kodo derived a plan to construct and maintain the garden, Kakubuen as a measure against unemployment. Built in 1813, Seienkaku was mainly used as the villa of the Homma Family, but also served as a lodging house when the feudal lord, Sakai came to inspect his territory. After the Edo period ended, it was used as a guesthouse for the Imperial Family, royalty, and government officials until 1945. The museum was built in 1968 as one of the first private art museums in Japan. The picturesque garden where you might see Mt. Chokai will delight the eye in any season. You can also savor bitter matcha tea with an artistic sweet wagashi confection surrounded by this scenic atmosphere.
