Daimaru Villa (Former Shimomura Shotaro Residence)

Daimaru Villa, formerly the residence of Shotaro Shimomura, the first president of Daimaru Department Store, is one of Kyoto’s finest examples of early Showa-period residential architecture. Completed in 1932, the house was designed by the William Merrell Vories Architectural Office and combines British Tudor Revival design with modern reinforced-concrete construction.

Today, the villa serves as a guest house for J. Front Retailing and is normally closed to the public. However, it occasionally opens during special events such as the Kyoto Modern Architecture Festival, allowing visitors to experience one of Japan’s most remarkable historic residences.

History

Shotaro Shimomura, a leading figure in the development of Daimaru Department Store, commissioned the Vories Architectural Office to design his private residence after being inspired by British architecture during his travels abroad.

Completed in 1932, the residence—nicknamed Chudoken—faithfully reproduces the Tudor Revival style with decorative half-timbering, steep roofs, brick-like tile finishes, and elaborate interior craftsmanship. The building has been carefully preserved and was designated an Important Cultural Property of Japan in 2025.

Highlights

Authentic Tudor Revival Architecture

Steep roofs, decorative half-timbering, tall chimneys, and carefully crafted brick-style walls recreate the atmosphere of an English country house with remarkable authenticity.

Designed by William Merrell Vories

The villa is one of the finest residential works by the Vories Architectural Office, whose designs include many of Japan’s most celebrated Western-style buildings.

Elegant Interior Design

Fireplaces, stained-glass windows, custom-built furniture, and richly detailed ceilings demonstrate the luxurious craftsmanship of Japan’s early modern period.

Landmark of Kyoto’s Modern Architecture

Together with the Former Kyoto Prefectural Office Main Building, St. Agnes’ Church, Doshisha Chapel, and the Former Residence of Joseph Hardy Neesima, Daimaru Villa is considered one of Kyoto’s architectural masterpieces from the modern era.

Rare Public Openings

Although normally closed, the villa is occasionally opened through the Kyoto Modern Architecture Festival, offering a rare opportunity to explore this extraordinary residence.

Visit Tips

As the villa is generally closed to the public, most visitors can only admire its exterior. If you hope to enter the building, check whether special tours are available during the Kyoto Modern Architecture Festival.

Architecture enthusiasts can easily combine a visit with the Former Kyoto Prefectural Office Main Building, St. Agnes’ Episcopal Church, Kyoto Gyoen National Garden, and Goo Shrine for an outstanding walking tour of Kyoto’s modern architectural heritage.