Furosenkan

This well-preserved building is a fine example of shoin-zukuri, an architectural style typical of high-ranking samurai residences of the Edo period (1603–1867). It was built in 1852. History, art, and architecture enthusiasts will find the site especially appealing.

The Furosenkan is a residence where Date Yoshikuni (1825–1874), the 13th-generation Date daimyo of Sendai, stayed when touring the domain. The building was originally part of the Hatakeyama family residence, in what was formerly Oinogawara. The structure was relocated to its current site in 1906, after having been purchased by Sato Shinsuke, the third-generation head of a prominent local merchant family.

The interior is decorated with antique furnishings, along with calligraphy and paintings by notable historical figures such as Shibusawa Eiichi (1840–1931). Shibusawa is known as the “father of Japanese capitalism” for his contributions to the country’s modern corporate and financial systems. The sculptor Kitamura Seibo (1884–1987), famed for the Peace Statue in Nagasaki Peace Park, contributed the fusuma-e paintings on the sliding panels in some of the rooms.

Among the many distinguished visitors to the Furosenkan are Prince Nobuhito of Takamatsu (1905–1987) and Princess Yuriko of Mikasa (1923–2024), great-uncle and great-aunt, respectively, of the current Emperor.

After viewing the interior, visitors can continue on to the garden, which is particularly attractive with cherry blossoms and azaleas in spring, and colorful foliage in fall.

A centuries-old Japanese horse chestnut tree and a tea room add to the appeal.