ANABUKI-TEI × SWING BIN, SHOEHORN, and TIN CADDY

A majestic main tower, and a Japanese garden with black pines over a century old. Built in 1970, Anabuki-tei was the residence of Natsuji Anabuki, a carpenter who helped rebuild post-war Kagawa and became a prominent local figure. Having watched over the city for over half a century, it was reborn in 2019 as a heritage villa, offering a quiet, exclusive retreat for guests worldwide.

Accommodations are limited to one group per day. Each of the three suite rooms offers a distinct atmosphere, centered on concepts of history, tradition, or art. A unique feature of Anabuki-tei is the room tour after check-in, where guests learn the story behind each suite before choosing their preferred room for the stay.

“The Heritage Master Suite” retains the residence’s original spirit while overlooking the beauty of the garden’s pine trees. “The Modernist Master Suite” immerses guests in Isamu Noguchi’s light fixtures and the world of “Sanuki Modern.” “The Artisan Master Suite” honors local craftsmanship, showcasing Aji stone and Kagawa lacquerware that pass traditional skills down to the present day. Deciding which room to make your own is all part of the experience.

Dinner features a private dining experience with trusted chefs who come to Anabuki-tei to prepare meals exclusively for guests. Alternatively, guests can venture out with the owner to a long-established charcoal-grilled Wagyu restaurant that is otherwise invitation-only.

Breakfast is served in a dining room filled with gentle sunlight, carefully prepared by a chef solely for you.

On the second-floor terrace, guests can unwind with an open-air bath and a Finnish sauna. Accessible 24 hours a day, the bath allows you to adjust the water to your preferred temperature whenever you wish.

From check-in to check-out, guests are welcomed by Eitaro Anabuki, the owner and host of the estate. The grandson of Natsuji Anabuki, who built the residence, Eitaro grew up in this home filled with childhood memories before reimagining it as a sanctuary for guests. “I welcome each guest to Anabuki-tei as my personal friend, fully sharing my local connections and relationships,” he says, serving as a dedicated concierge to ensure a seamless stay.

The bathroom of The Artisan Master Suite is appointed with a SWING BIN. “Finding the ideal trash can was a long process that took extensive research,” recalls Eitaro. “While trash cans often feel too utilitarian, having one designed to be displayed opens up new options for where it can be placed.”

At the entrance, the SHOEHORN offers a gentle welcome to visiting guests—discovered after a long search for a shoehorn that would complement Anabuki-tei’s atmosphere, much like the SWING BIN.
In the kitchen dining area, the TIN CADDY was initially curated as an accent piece, effortlessly making its presence felt within the serene space.

In subtle ways, MOHEIM items help extend quiet hospitality to every guest who visits Anabuki-tei.

Photo by Mikuto Tanaka