🏰 Romantic Taishō Era Elegance at Bansuisō, Matsuyama

Our stroll beneath Matsuyama Castle led us to Bansuisō, an unexpected gem tucked amid the city’s bustle. Built in 1922 for Count Hisamatsu—who spent 15 years in France—the villa exudes European Romanticism with a distinctive blend of Neo-Renaissance and Art Nouveau styles.

Entering through a modest gate and winding up a leafy path, we found ourselves in a charming forested courtyard. The exterior details are stunning: Corinthian columns at the entrance, a steep natural slate roof topped with copper, and even gold coins once melted into the lightning rod!

Inside, the rooms are modest in size but rich in character. Moldings, chandeliers, fireplaces—all beautifully preserved—create that vintage Parisian-meets-Japan ambiance. We climbed to the second floor (a small fee), and from the balcony, the villa looked like a dollhouse nestled in leafy surroundings—great for photos.

Though parts of the villa function as exhibition space today, what captivated us most was the timeless serenity, which is probably why it hosts music recitals, art exhibits, and even weddings. The basement restroom, updated with Victorian elegance yet modern comfort, was an unexpected delight.

If you love architecture, history, or just peaceful hideaways, Bansuisō is worth a visit—especially after wandering the castle grounds. It’s a quiet slice of European-style elegance without leaving Matsuyama.

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Post by Crumpled Nomad | Jun 24, 2025