Former Ito Denemon House, Iizuka

The Former Ito Denemon House stands as a magnificent testament to Japan's coal mining prosperity during the early 20th century. Built in 1917 by Ito Denemon, known as the "King of Coal Mines," this luxurious residence was constructed to welcome his 25-year-old second wife, Byakuren Yanagihara, when he was 50 years old. The Chikuho area in Fukuoka was once Japan's premier coal energy producing region, and Denemon amassed his vast fortune through coal mining operations during the Meiji to Showa periods.

This architectural masterpiece represents a remarkable fusion of Japanese and Western design elements, created by Japan's finest architects of the era. At Byakuren's request, the residence featured groundbreaking Western amenities including an Art Nouveau-style reception room, dining room, study room, and Kyushu's first flushable toilet. The elegant building resembles a palace in its luxurious decoration and exquisite design details. The residence was recognized as a Japanese Cultural Property in 2011, acknowledging its significant architectural and historical value.

Visitors can explore the meticulously preserved interior rooms that showcase the opulent lifestyle of Japan's industrial elite. The house retains the gorgeousness it possessed when poet Byakuren Yanagihara lived there during her 10-year marriage to Ito Denemon. The impressive mixture of Japanese and Western architectural styles creates a visually striking experience. The residence also features a stunning 1,500 square meter traditional Japanese strolling garden with a central pond, providing a serene contrast to the architectural grandeur of the main building.

The Former Ito Denemon House is located at 300 Kobukuro, Iizuka, Fukuoka Prefecture. Admission fees are 310 yen for adults (250 yen for groups of 20 or more) and 100 yen for children (80 yen for group rates). The residence is accessible via public transportation to Iizuka, though it requires some travel from more popular tourist areas. While not as touristic as nearby Mojiko Retro, the site offers an authentic and worthwhile cultural experience that justifies a dedicated day trip.