The three buildings of the hotel named after different species of irises

During the Edo period there was a cultural trend in which commoners would cultivate and admire irises. Many of the irises that were cultivated during this time still remain and the iris which was once the official flower of Sawara City continues to represent the area. Each building that is a part of the Sawara Merchant Town Hotel NIPPONIA has been named after a different species of an iris.

GEISHO Building
(Former Nakamuraya Shoten, Designated Prefectural Cultural Property)

─ Reception & Restaurant

The hotel reception and restaurant are located in a building that was formerly a merchant shop which has been designated as a Tangible Cultural Property by Chiba Prefecture. This building is like the landmark of Sawara as it has continued to watch over the town for 160 years since it was built during the Edo period. The building is named after a famous species of iris called the “Geisho-ui” and is located on the main street of Sawara at the cultural and physical center of town.

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YATA Building

─ 101 / 102 / 103

The YATA building was a large structure that was originally built over 100 years ago during the Meiji period as a place to process cotton and houses 3 guest rooms. Each of the guest rooms are made up of the former main wing, warehouse that was built using state-of-the-art technology available at that time, and the annex that faces the backyard. The building is named after the species of iris called the “Yata no Kagami”, which was known for its large flower petals. The YATA building is a 2-minute walk from the GEISHO building where the reception is located.

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AOI Building

─ 201

The AOI building was built over 80 years ago during the early Showa period and stands in front of a boat landing along the Ono River. The entire building, which used to be a famous local Japanese-style restaurant, has been transformed into a guestroom. The building is located in a prime location to watch the Sawara Grand Festival held during the summer and fall as the giant float procession passes right by the building. The building was named after the species of iris called “Aoi no Ue”. The AOI building is a 2-minute walk from the GEISHO building where the reception is located.

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  • Check-in and check-out at the reception in the GEISHO building.

  • Dinner and breakfast will be served at the restaurant in the GEISHO building.

  • Relax in one of the guest rooms that are located throughout the town.