Home of a Diplomat

The Home of a Diplomat is a two-story building with American Victorian architecture, clapboard siding, and gray slate roof featuring decorative details. The rooms are open to visitors and display the original furnishings and fixtures from that era.

The house was built in 1910 and initially served as a residence for a Japanese diplomat in another part of the city. After several years, the building was relocated to Yokohama where it remains today as an important cultural landmark.

The rooms show how Western and Japanese living styles existed side by side during the Meiji period. Visitors can see how foreign diplomats furnished their homes and what objects they brought from their homelands.

The location is within walking distance of a public transport hub and open most days. Visitors should wear appropriate clothing and comfortable shoes since entering some rooms requires removing footwear.

The building was moved to its current location after originally being constructed elsewhere. This relocation is a rare example of how valuable Western structures were preserved in Japan.

Location: Yamatechō

Inception: 1910

Architects: James McDonald Gardiner

Architectural style: Western-style building

Part of: Yamate Italian Garden

Website: http://hama-midorinokyokai.or.jp/yamate-seiyoukan/gaikoukan

GPS coordinates: 35.43663,139.64341

Latest update: December 12, 2025 14:23