Taikōen

Taiko-​en was originally Amijima Residence built by a baron, Mr. F. The Japanese-​style luxurious and splendid building is now used for wedding ceremonies, various banquets, or business meetings. It boasts a vast pond garden with artificial hills.
Yodogawa Regidence was constructed in the end of the Meiji period in the same site. It has a Japanese-​style restaurant and various sizes of rooms. I asked a female staff member to look around the residence. To tell the truth, I look for a place to hold a Buddhist memorial service for my grandmother. There was no guest on that day, so she showed me around all the rooms. Each room was clean and arranged with seasonal beautiful flowers. On the day there was no guest but each room was beautifully arranged. I was impressed with that. Also beautiful and gorgeous Kimonos were displayed in every room. When Buddhist memorial service, the gorgeous and fancy kimonos were driven away and other ornaments were replaced.
I could see an elegant garden from every room. I found a bare tree. I asked her, «What tree is this?» She answered, «It’s a cherry blossom tree.» «Really!?» My grandmother passed away when cherry blossoms were in full bloom. She continued that it was difficult to make a reservation in cherry-​blossom season. So I have to reserve a room earlier in advance. I replied I would consult my mother. There are also chairs in almost all the rooms. If someone has a trouble in his or her foot, don’t worry about that. You need not sit in a posture with your legs folded (called «Seiza).
The woman who showed me around the building looked like a friend of mine in atmosphere. She wore Kimono neatly and was well-​mannered. I was overwhelmed how excellent the building was. I deeply appreciated observing the inside of the old residence to my heart content.