Hoheikan is a striking architectural landmark located amid the lush green surroundings of Nakajima Park. Experience the opulence of this historic house while wandering between its stately rooms. Learn about the varied uses of Hoheikan and the distinguished guests it has received throughout its 140-year existence.
Inaugurated in 1880 as a Meiji government-built hotel, the building originally stood near present-day Odori Park. It became known as a hotel for ceremonial events and includes Emperor Meiji, Emperor Taisho and Emperor Showa as esteemed former guests.
During World War II the hotel was occupied by Japan’s Northern Army and later by United States military forces. The hotel was dismantled and moved to Nakajima Park in 1958. It soon reopened as a wedding venue, one of the most popular in the city. Gaze at the beautiful building and marvel at the painstaking effort involved in its relocation.
Admire the building’s blend of American and Western architectural designs. It features a whitewashed clapboard façade with blue columns, pilasters and window frames. Note the curving portico, supported by columns and topped by a balustrade. On the roof’s central arch is a gegyo sculpture similar to those seen at Japanese temples.
Step inside to view rooms decorated with dark wood furniture, grand fireplaces and sophisticated drapes. Notice the interesting centerpieces from which the chandeliers hang. Each has a plaster bas-relief with a unique motif such as chrysanthemums, grapes and phoenixes. See the rooms where the emperors stayed and sit at the tables, just as the royal guests did.
Multimedia presentations in the first-floor rooms describe the history of the house and northern Japan. Memories and Happiness recounts the building’s period as a wedding venue with a slideshow of spouses and their ceremonies.
Walk a short distance from Nakajima Koen Station or the Nakajimakoendori tram stop to reach Hoheikan. There is no public parking at the attraction so use the city’s public transportation system.
Hoheikan is open daily, except for the second Tuesday of the month, and has an admission fee. Join a free guided tour offered by volunteer staff. Stop for tea in the café corner.
