Visit Japan Web Okochi Sanso Villa
Visit Japan Web invites you to explore Okochi Sanso Villa, a garden and the former residence of Denjiro Okochi, a renowned Japanese actor. For numerous tourists in Japan, a visit to one of Kyoto’s renowned villas, such as Katsura Imperial Villa and Shugakuin Imperial Villa, holds significant appeal. Despite the “free” admission to these attractions, they entail application processes that serve as a deterrent for many foreign visitors.
Accessible to the general public, Okochi Sanso Villa serves as an excellent alternative and is arguably the most exquisite villa in Kyoto. Additionally, it is more conveniently located, being just a short walk from major attractions in Arashiyama.
Denjiro Okochi, the actor who commissioned the construction of Okochi Sanso Villa, enjoyed tremendous stardom in Japan for a span of four decades. He made his debut at Nikkatsu studio in 1925 and swiftly gained recognition for his roles in samurai films, particularly excelling in realistic sword-fighting action sequences.
Rather than flaunting opulence, Okochi Sanso Villa showcases traditional Japanese styles marked by elegance and subtlety. The architectural structures are strikingly beautiful and the design reflects a refined and understated aesthetic characteristic of Japanese villas. This is not to diminish the grandeur of the villa and its gardens. On the contrary, their design exudes dignity and impressiveness, steeped in classic Japanese architectural elements and traditional values. The surrounding grounds boast meticulously maintained gardens and offer breathtaking views of Kyoto on one side and the Hozu River on the other.
While Okochi Sanso Villa is quite large and doesn’t draw a ton of visitors, the main path that winds through the grounds is still very narrow at times. This can lead to congestion even when the villa is not busy.
