🏛️ The Former Shimazu Residence at Seisen University, Shinagawa

#hellohalloween Hidden within the serene campus of Seisen University in Shinagawa lies one of Tokyo’s finest examples of early 20th-century Western-style architecture — the Former Shimazu Residence. Originally built as the Tokyo home of the Shimazu family, the former feudal lords of the Satsuma domain, this grand red-brick mansion beautifully reflects the elegance of the Italian Renaissance style. The residence is not open for walk-ins — visits are reservation-only and highly sought after. After two unsuccessful attempts, I was lucky enough to secure a spot on the third try! The guided tour, led by Seisen University students, offered fascinating insights into both the architecture and the family’s history. Inside, the mansion features stained glass, ornate fireplaces, and intricate plaster ceilings, all preserved in remarkable condition. The building now serves as the university’s main hall, seamlessly blending academic life with cultural heritage. It’s a rare opportunity to step into a living piece of history — where art, architecture, and education coexist in perfect harmony. 📍 Seisen University (Former Shimazu Residence), Shinagawa, Tokyo #tokyohistory #architecturelovers #heritagejapan #seisenuniversity #shimazuresidence #italianrenaissance #tokyowalks #culturalheritage