“Arrietty” (originally titled “The Borrower Arrietty”), a masterpiece of Studio Ghibli released in 2010, tells a heartwarming story between a tiny person named Arrietty and a human boy named Shō. The mansion that serves as the setting for this tale is modeled after “Seibien,” located in Hirakawa City, Aomori Prefecture. This Meiji-era garden, designated as a nationally designated scenic beauty, continues to captivate not only Ghibli fans but also many tourists with its unique space created by the fusion of Japanese and Western architectural beauty and gardens crafted in the Ōishi Buigaku style.
Seibien: A Nationally Designated Scenic Beauty, One of the Three Most Celebrated Meiji-Era Gardens
Seibien is a Japanese garden created during the Meiji era by the 24th and 25th heads of the Seifuji family. It is counted as one of the “Three Most Celebrated Meiji-Era Gardens” alongside Murin-an in Kyoto and Seifu-sō, and was designated as a national scenic beauty in 1953 (Showa 28).
Within the grounds of approximately 3,600 tsubo (approximately 1.2 hectares), spreads a beautiful pond-centered garden. At its center stands “Seibien-kan,” a building that blends Japanese and Western architectural styles. This unique structure has a purely Japanese style on the first floor and a Western style on the second floor—a rare example of such architecture in Japan.
The Pinnacle of the Ōishi Buigaku Style
When discussing Seibien, one cannot overlook the “Ōishi Buigaku” garden design style. This unique garden school, nurtured in the Tsugaru region, was established by the Edo period landscape designer Ōishi Buigakusai.
The characteristics of the Ōishi Buigaku style are as follows:
- Arrangement of artificial hills and ponds: A large pond is placed at the garden’s center, with artificial hills skillfully arranged around it
- Use of borrowed scenery: A technique of incorporating distant mountains as part of the garden
- Beauty of stone arrangements: Powerful stone compositions using natural stone
- Consideration of plantings: Placement of trees that can be enjoyed as they change with the seasons
Seibien holds an important position in garden history as a masterwork exemplifying the essence of the Buigaku style.
The Connection Between “The Borrower Arrietty” and Seibien
A Bond Born from a Studio Ghibli Company Trip
While not officially announced by Studio Ghibli, it is said that when Studio Ghibli employees visited Aomori Prefecture on a company trip in 2008, their visit to Seibien became the catalyst for the film’s production.
The unique blend of Japanese and Western architectural styles, the verdant garden, and the atmosphere that transcends time—all seemed to perfectly match the image of an old mansion where tiny people live. From the exterior of the mansion appearing in the film to the garden atmosphere and even the fine details of decoration, the influence of Seibien can be seen throughout.
Comparison of Scenes from the Film and Seibien
When you visit Seibien after watching “The Borrower Arrietty,” you will notice numerous points in common:
- Exterior of the mansion: The two-story Japanese-Western hybrid architecture serves directly as the model for the mansion in the film
- Garden scenery: The verdant garden and the arrangement of the pond form the film’s worldview
- View from windows: The garden view overlooking from the second floor of Seibien-kan is precisely Arrietty’s perspective
- Fine details of the building: Similarities can be found in decorations and window frame designs
However, the film also drew inspiration from other locations such as the “Nogawa” and “Hake no Koji” in Koganei City, Tokyo, so Seibien is primarily the main model for the mansion and garden portions.
Seibien-kan: A Masterpiece of Japanese-Western Hybrid Architecture
Architectural Characteristics and History
Seibien-kan was constructed from 1902 to 1910 (Meiji 35-43). The building’s greatest feature is its structure where the first floor is pure Japanese sukiya-style construction and the second floor is Western architecture—starkly different styles stacked vertically.
First floor (Japanese style):
- Sukiya-style parlor rooms
- Traditional appointments such as alcoves and tiered shelving
- A calm, tatami-matted space
- A veranda for viewing the garden
Second floor (Western style):
- Western reception room
- Stained glass and decorative ceilings
- Western-style windows and fixtures
- Panoramic views from the balcony
This building served as a “viewing pavilion” intended for enjoying the garden, and the view from the second floor in particular is spectacular. As a symbol of the Meiji era’s civilization and enlightenment, it has become a precious architectural heritage where Japanese and Western cultures fused.
The Second Floor: Usually Closed to the Public
The second floor of Seibien-kan is normally closed to the public, but viewing is possible by participating in special guided tours. From the second floor, one can view the entire garden and gain a bird’s-eye understanding of the Ōishi Buigaku garden design techniques.
The contrast between the Western interior, light streaming through stained glass windows, and the Japanese garden visible through the windows truly embodies the beauty of Japanese-Western fusion.
The Garden Beauty of Seibien: Charms Throughout the Seasons
Spring in Seibien
In spring, cherry blossoms and fresh greenery adorn Seibien. When the cherry blossoms planted around the pond bloom fully, flower petals reflected on the water’s surface create a fantastical scene. Late April through early May is prime viewing season, allowing visitors to enjoy Aomori’s late spring.
Additionally, flowering shrubs like azaleas and satsuki begin to bloom, and the entire garden becomes enveloped in an atmosphere full of vitality.
Summer in Seibien
Summer is when the greenery becomes most vivid. Lotus flowers bloom in the pond of the Seibien’s strolling garden, and one can hear the cool sound of flowing water. The greenery of the trees deepens, creating beautiful contrast with Seibien-kan’s Japanese-Western hybrid architecture.
Summer at Seibien is the stage itself of “The Borrower Arrietty.” The Western mansion standing amid a verdant garden perfectly overlaps with the image of the mansion where Arrietty and her family live.
Autumn in Seibien
Autumn in Seibien is known as a prime viewing spot for autumn foliage. From mid-October through early November, Japanese maples and ginkgos turn brilliant shades of red and yellow, and the entire garden becomes wrapped in a beauty like a brocade painting.
The foliage reflected in the pond, the foliage coloring the artificial hills, and the scene of autumn leaves with Seibien-kan in the background never fail to enchant visitors. Especially in the afternoon on clear days, autumn leaves bathed in the western sun display exceptional beauty.
Winter in Seibien
During the winter season, the park closes, but Seibien blanketed in snow possesses special charm. During special openings, the contrast between the snow-covered garden and mansion creates a serene beauty reminiscent of ink paintings.
Visiting Information for Seibien: Access and Viewing Tips
Basic Information
Address: Seigishi Hayashi 1, Hirakawa City, Aomori Prefecture
Opening hours:
- April-November: 9:00-17:00 (last entry 16:30)
- Closed during winter (December-March)
Admission fee:
- Adults: 450 yen
- Junior and senior high students: 200 yen
- Elementary school students: 100 yen
- Viewing the second floor of Seibien-kan may require an additional fee
Official website: http://seibien.jp/
Access Methods
By train and bus:
- From JR Hirosaki Station, take the Kōnan Railway Kōnan Line to “Hiraga Station,” then taxi for approximately 10 minutes
- From JR Hirosaki Station by bus, approximately 40 minutes
By car:
- Approximately 15 minutes from the Kuroishi IC on the Tōhoku Expressway
- Approximately 30 minutes from Hirosaki city center
- Free parking available (approximately 50 regular vehicles)
Nearby Sightseeing Spots
Nearby spots to enjoy along with a visit to Seibien:
Saru-ga Shrine: A historic shrine adjacent to Seibien. Features a beautiful pond and a striking vermillion bridge
Hirakawa City Museum of Art: A museum introducing the region’s art and culture
Hirosaki City: Located approximately 30 minutes by car, featuring numerous historic structures such as Hirosaki Castle and Western-style buildings
Kuroishi City: Areas like the Komise Street maintain traditional streets of the Tsugaru region
Maximizing Your Ghibli Experience at Seibien
Watching the Film Before Your Visit is Recommended
Before visiting Seibien, it is recommended to watch “The Borrower Arrietty” again. By keeping scenes of the mansion and garden from the film in your memory, your sense of wonder when actually visiting Seibien will be doubled.
Best Photo Spots
Seibien-kan’s exterior:
- A panoramic view of Seibien-kan seen across the pond (frontal composition)
- Photography of the mansion with garden greenery in the foreground
- Close-ups of the second-floor balcony section
Garden scenery:
- Reflection of Seibien-kan mirrored in the pond
- Views from the artificial hills
- Details of stone arrangements and plantings
Seasonal landscapes:
- Cherry blossoms and Seibien-kan in spring
- The densely green garden in summer
- Contrast of autumn foliage and the mansion
Participating in Guided Tours
Guided tours specifically for “The Borrower Arrietty” pilgrimage sites are held regularly. These tours offer:
- Entry to the normally closed second floor of Seibien-kan
- Commentary on scenes appearing in the film
- Detailed explanation of the Ōishi Buigaku garden design technique
- Guidance to photography spots
And other special experiences not available during regular visits. Advance reservations are often required, so check the official website or tourism association.
The History of Seibien and the Seifuji Family’s Story
The Seifuji Family and the Birth of Seibien
Seibien was created by the Seifuji family, prosperous farmers in the Tsugaru region. The Seifuji family had engaged in farming and commerce for generations, contributing to regional development as a prominent local family.
The 24th head of the household, Seifuji Seibimi, resolved during the Meiji era’s wave of civilization and enlightenment to create a garden and architectural complex that fused Western culture with traditional Japanese culture. The 25th head continued this vision, and from 1902 to 1910 (Meiji 35-43), the current Seibien and Seibien-kan were completed.
The Origin of the Name
The name “Seibien” is derived from the 24th head’s name “Seibimi.” The name also carries the meaning “prosperous and beautiful,” reflecting the wish to preserve the garden’s beauty eternally.
The Path to National Designation as a Scenic Beauty
Seibien was designated as a national scenic beauty in 1953 (Showa 28) in recognition of its garden beauty and architectural value. This designation means that the garden was recognized by the nation as possessing value worthy of protection as the pinnacle of Ōishi Buigaku style garden technique and as a cultural asset of the Meiji era.
Since then, the Seifuji family and local people have preserved and maintained it carefully, and it continues to maintain its beauty to this day.
Understanding Ōishi Buigaku Style Garden Techniques Deeply
The Structure of the Pond-Centered Strolling Garden
Seibien adopts the “pond-centered strolling garden” format. This is a garden style where a large pond is placed at the center, and visitors can enjoy various landscapes while walking around its perimeter.
Main components:
- Central pond: The large pond positioned at the garden’s center. The reflections on the water’s surface are also carefully calculated
- Artificial hills: Hills placed around the pond. Changes in elevation add variation to the landscape
- Garden path: A walking path that circles the pond. Enjoy changing scenery with each step
- Stone arrangement: Powerful stone compositions using natural stone. Function as waterfalls or embankments
- Plantings: Placement of trees that allow enjoyment of seasonal changes
The Technique of Borrowed Scenery
One characteristic of the Ōishi Buigaku style is the “borrowed scenery” technique. At Seibien, distant mountains such as Mount Iwaki are incorporated as part of the garden, creating depth and expansiveness in the landscape.
This technique creates a space that conveys infinite expanse despite limited site area.
Water Expression
The pond’s water is kept eternally clear, and carp can be seen swimming. The reflection of Seibien-kan and trees on the water’s surface creates an atmosphere where reality and illusion overlap, producing a fantastical ambiance.
Additionally, the sound of flowing water and the sound of rain falling on the pond are also calculated as part of the garden’s multi-sensory experience.
Comparison of Seibien with Other Meiji Era Gardens
Seibien is counted among the “Three Most Celebrated Meiji-Era Gardens,” and comparison with the other two gardens is also interesting.
Murin-an (Kyoto)
A Kyoto garden created in 1896 by Yamagata Aritomo. A strolling pond garden with the Eastern Mountains as borrowed scenery, representing modern garden beauty of the Meiji era.
Similarities with Seibien:
- Pond-centered strolling structure
- Use of borrowed scenery
- Reflection of Meiji era culture
Differences:
- Murin-an is purely Japanese style; Seibien features Japanese-Western hybrid architecture
- Kyoto’s urban refinement versus Seibien’s powerful local farmer aesthetic
Seifu-sō (Kyoto)
Another Meiji-era garden in Kyoto. Counted among the three most celebrated Meiji gardens alongside Seibien and Murin-an.
That Seibien is named alongside these Kyoto gardens demonstrates that the value of the Ōishi Buigaku style garden culture unique to the Tsugaru region has gained nationwide recognition.
The Significance of 2023 Book Cover Selection for “Beautiful Western Buildings of Japan”
The selection of Seibien (Seibien-kan) as the cover image for “Beautiful Western Buildings of Japan,” published in October 2023, indicates that this architectural structure’s value is being recognized anew across the nation.
A unique Japanese-Western hybrid architectural style, cultural background of the Meiji era, and connection to “The Borrower Arrietty,” a modern pop culture phenomenon. These overlapping elements allow Seibien to continuously acquire new value as a cultural asset with timeless appeal.
Regional Revitalization and Seibien: Initiatives by Hirakawa and Hirosaki Cities
Utilization as a Tourism Resource
Hirakawa City, Aomori Prefecture, and the adjacent Hirosaki City position Seibien as an important tourism resource and undertake various initiatives.
Hirosaki City tourism strategy:
- Proposal of sightseeing routes combining Hirosaki Castle and Western-style buildings
- Active information dissemination through tourism websites such as “Hirosaki Navi”
- Special planning for Ghibli fans
Hirakawa City initiatives:
- Support for preservation and management of Seibien
- Infrastructure improvement for better access
- Collaboration with other regional tourism resources
As a Hub of Ghibli Tourism
Leveraging the characteristic of being modeled after the “Borrower Arrietty” setting, active tourist recruitment targeting Ghibli fans is underway.
- Planning of pilgrimage site tours
- Promotion as an Instagram-worthy spot
- Hosting of Ghibli-related events
Through these initiatives, Seibien has become a representative tourist destination in Aomori Prefecture, attracting many domestic and international visitors.
Precautions and Etiquette When Visiting Seibien
Consideration for Cultural Asset Protection
Seibien is a nationally designated scenic beauty and precious cultural asset. When visiting, please note the following:
- Do not damage plants or stones in the garden
- Do not enter areas marked as off-limits
- Dispose of all trash properly
- Do not touch areas of the building other than designated locations
Photography Etiquette
Photography is generally permitted, but please observe the following etiquette:
- Be considerate of other visitors and avoid obstructing them
- Avoid using tripods during crowded times
- Commercial use requires advance permission
- Drone photography is often prohibited, so confirm beforehand
Choosing Season and Time of Day
To enjoy the most beautiful scenery:
- Spring: Cherry blossom season (late April to early May)
- Summer: Peak greenery season (July-August)
- Autumn: Autumn foliage season (mid-October to early November)
- Time of day: Soft morning light or afternoon western sun are particularly beautiful
For those wishing to avoid crowds, weekday mornings are recommended.
Dining and Accommodation Information Around Seibien
Local Specialty Cuisine
Tsugaru region gourmet options to enjoy alongside a Seibien visit:
Tsugaru Soba: Traditional soba noodles of the Tsugaru region. Strong chewiness and rich flavor
Apple Sweets: Aomori Prefecture is Japan’s top apple producer. Enjoy various apple-based sweets such as apple pie
Senbei Soup: Regional cuisine where southern Honshu rice crackers are added to soup
Tsugaru Ramen: Light ramen with a dashi broth made from dried sardines
Accommodation Facilities
Within Hirakawa City:
- A few business hotels and traditional inns
- Some accommodations with hot spring facilities
Within Hirosaki City:
- A wider variety of accommodation options
- Lodging in historic buildings available
- Approximately 30 minutes by car from Seibien
Within Kuroishi City:
- Famous as a hot spring destination
- Many quiet hot spring inns
Conclusion: Experiencing the Ghibli World and Japanese Garden Beauty at Seibien
Seibien in Hirakawa City, Aomori Prefecture, is known as the setting model for Studio Ghibli’s “The Borrower Arrietty,” but beyond that, it is counted among the Three Most Celebrated Meiji-Era Gardens and is a precious nationally designated scenic beauty representing Japan’s garden culture.
The Japanese-Western hybrid Seibien-kan, garden design techniques of the Ōishi Buigaku style, and beautiful scenery throughout the seasons—all harmonize to continue captivating visitors.
Those who watch the film and visit Seibien can immerse themselves in Arrietty’s world, while those who appreciate Japanese gardens can experience the essence of Meiji-era culture and technique.
When visiting Aomori Prefecture, be sure to visit Seibien and experience the unique space where Ghibli’s world and Japan’s traditional beauty fuse. The verdant garden, elegant mansion, and timeless beauty will surely captivate you.
Cherry blossoms in spring, greenery in summer, autumn foliage—no matter which season you visit, Seibien welcomes you with a different face. And you can see with your own eyes the landscape that Arrietty saw in the film.
