Yokiso

Built between the Taisho and early Showa periods by Yumin Ito Jirozaemon-Suketami, the first president of Matsuzakaya, a famous department store in Nagoya, this villa stands as a testament to the era's affluent lifestyle. Constructed on the hills of Kakouzan, Youki-so is a representative suburban villa of modern Nagoya. Five of its buildings are designated as tangible cultural properties by the city of Nagoya. The name " Yokiso" is said to have been inspired by the area's reputation as a prime spot for moon-viewing, drawing from a line in the classic Chinese poem, "Spring waters fill four lakes, summer clouds crowd strange peaks, autumn's moon shines brightly, winter ridges stand with solitary pines."

At the time of its establishment, the villa boasted a sprawling grounds of about 10,000 tsubo (approximately 33,000 square meters). Taking advantage of the natural undulations of the land, it featured ponds and streams in harmony with the surrounding nature. At its peak, there were over 30 structures on the property, each holding significant architectural and historical value.

Given Ito Jirozaemon-Suketami's roles as a business leader, philanthropist, and an active participant in international exchanges, the villa served as a reception hall and social venue where key figures from various sectors and cultural personalities gathered. It was also used as a dormitory for Asian students studying in Japan.