The Main Building: A Symbol of Japan’s Modernization
The main building was completed in September 1884. Its construction was inspired by a proposal from Motozane Katori, the governor of Gunma Prefecture at the time. Local volunteers, businesses, and citizens raised funds to build the facility as a reception hall for important guests.
The land was donated by Zentaro Shimomura, a local silk merchant. The building was therefore created through the combined efforts of the people and businesses of Maebashi, reflecting the city’s determination to develop during the period of rapid modernization.
A Refined Sukiya-Style Wooden Building
The two-story wooden building features a hipped-and-gabled roof and traditional ceramic roof tiles. Its architecture incorporates elements of the Japanese sukiya style, traditionally associated with tea houses and refined residential architecture.
The building measures approximately 17.9 meters from end to end and 10.3 meters across. Its first floor contains several traditional rooms, including the Ichinoma, Tsuginoma, Sannoma, and waiting room.
The Ichinoma was designed so that its tatami mats could be removed, allowing the room to be transformed into a Noh theater stage. This flexible design demonstrates how traditional Japanese architecture could accommodate formal cultural events.
An Imperial Residence
The second floor once included a special room known as the Gozaisho, or imperial guest room. In 1893, Rinkokaku was used as a temporary imperial residence during Emperor Meiji’s visit.
The building subsequently welcomed members of the Imperial Family and was used for important meetings and official gatherings. Its history makes Rinkokaku an important architectural reminder of Japan’s transition into a modern nation.
The Kodo Tea House: The Beauty of Wabi
The tea house was completed just two months after the main building, in November 1884. It was constructed by Genbei Imai, a master carpenter from Kyoto, with financial contributions from Motozane Katori and officials of the prefectural government.
A Simple and Elegant Tea Ceremony Space
This small, single-story wooden building is designed as a traditional soan-style tea house. At its center is a tea room measuring four and a half Kyoto-style tatami mats.
Unlike the more formal appearance of the main building, the tea house emphasizes simplicity and understated beauty. Its design reflects the Japanese aesthetic of wabi, which values simplicity, tranquility, natural materials, and subtle refinement.
The tea house was named “Kodo” in connection with Katori’s literary name during the Heisei period. Today, it continues to be used for tea ceremonies and cultural events, providing visitors with an opportunity to experience an important aspect of traditional Japanese culture.
The Annex: An Elegant Shoin-Style Building
The annex was constructed in 1910 as a reception hall for distinguished guests attending the National Industrial Exhibition jointly organized by one prefecture and fourteen prefectures.
The two-story wooden building features a traditional shoin-style design and has a total floor area of approximately 1,000 square meters.
A Blend of Japanese and Western Design
The first floor contains traditional Japanese rooms as well as a large Western-style hall measuring approximately 60 tatami mats. This combination of Japanese and Western elements reflects the changing architectural tastes of Japan during the late Meiji period.
The second floor features an enormous hall measuring approximately 180 tatami mats. Gold-leaf-covered sliding doors and finely crafted fittings create an impressive and richly decorated interior.
The hall is also associated with the celebrated Japanese poet Sakutaro Hagiwara, who held his wedding ceremony there.
From Civic Building to Cultural Heritage Site
After the Second World War, the annex was used for municipal functions, including as part of Maebashi City Hall and as a community center. It therefore played an important role in the everyday life of local residents.
During a major restoration project, seismic reinforcement was carried out and parts of the building were restored to reflect its original appearance. Today, the annex is used for meetings, exhibitions, ceremonies, and other cultural events.
In 2023, it was also used as one of the related venues for the G7 Gunma-Takasaki Digital and Technology Ministers’ Meeting.
Motozane Katori and the Development of Maebashi
The Story Behind the Move of the Prefectural Government
Motozane Katori is remembered as an important figure in the modernization of Maebashi. Working with influential local silk merchants and other citizens, including the group known as the “Twenty-Five Men of Maebashi,” he helped bring about the relocation of the Gunma Prefectural Government from Takasaki to Maebashi.
Local leaders strongly supported industrial development, particularly the silk industry, which was one of the most important industries in the region at the time.
A monument in nearby Maebashi Park depicts Katori and his wife together with other figures associated with the development of the local silk industry. It provides another reminder of the people who contributed to the growth of modern Maebashi.
Rinkokaku is therefore more than an attractive historic building. It is also a symbol of Maebashi’s transformation during Japan’s modernization.
Seasonal Beauty and Evening Illumination
The Japanese garden surrounding Rinkokaku offers beautiful scenery throughout the year. Cherry blossoms appear in spring, fresh green foliage fills the grounds in summer, colorful autumn leaves decorate the garden in fall, and snow can create a quiet winter landscape.
Nighttime Illumination
Rinkokaku is also illuminated at night. The lighting program recreates colors associated with the Meiji era, including shades such as Shinbashi blue-green and nasukon, a deep eggplant purple.
The historic buildings take on a completely different appearance after dark, creating a beautiful atmosphere where traditional architecture and modern lighting come together.
Illumination Hours
January–April: 5:30 p.m.–11:00 p.m.
May–September: 6:30 p.m.–11:00 p.m.
October–December: 5:30 p.m.–11:00 p.m.
A Living Cultural Heritage Site
Although Rinkokaku is an important historic monument, the complex continues to be actively used today. It hosts tea ceremonies, exhibitions, music performances, receptions, cultural events, and professional shogi matches.
The buildings have also been used as filming locations for television dramas and movies. In 2014, Rinkokaku attracted particular attention when it appeared as a filming location for the NHK historical drama “Hana Moyu.”
Preserving History for Future Generations
A major renovation project was carried out over approximately one and a half years beginning in 2016. The work included seismic reinforcement and restoration designed to preserve the historic character of the buildings.
Rinkokaku reopened to the public in 2017, continuing to balance the preservation of its cultural heritage with its use as an active public and cultural space.
A Historic Destination in Maebashi
Standing beside the Tone River, Rinkokaku offers a rare opportunity to experience the elegance of Japan’s Meiji-era architecture while also learning about the history of Maebashi’s modernization.
The main building, tea house, and annex each have their own architectural character, from the refined simplicity of the tea house to the grand reception halls of the annex. Together, they tell the story of a period when Japan was rapidly changing and incorporating new ideas while continuing to value traditional culture.
With its historic buildings, Japanese garden, seasonal scenery, and nighttime illumination, Rinkokaku is a memorable place to visit in Maebashi. Take your time to explore the buildings and gardens and experience the atmosphere of a historic Japanese reception hall beside the Tone River.