This was originally the villa of the Homma wealthy merchant family in Sakata. In 1947, the Seienkaku villa and the Kakubuen garden were opened to the public as the first private art museum after WWII. Together with the new building that opened in 1968, the museum holds a variety of exhibitions ranging from the Homma family's own collection to contemporary art. Kakubuen garden (including Seienkaku as part of the landscape) is designated as a Place of National Scenic Beauty. In the Michelin Green Guide Japan, Kakubuen garden is awarded two stars, and both Seienkaku villa and the art museum are awarded one star. Kakubuen garden was originally built as part of wintertime work for unemployed longshoremen. It was visited by the Japanese Imperial Family and Helen Keller. There are many highlights to see, such as the garden with engraved stones from various countries that were brought to keep the Kitamaebune ships stable, items that the Homma family received from feudal lords, documents that are highly valuable as historical materials, and tea ceremony utensils that the head of the family liked. There is also a tea corner where visitors can relax and enjoy the seasonal scenery.