From Ambassador (Moving out of the former residence)
2026/6/30
On June 15, we vacated the former official residence at Brekkugerði.
The week prior, I visited the house and the neighborhood to bid farewell to the home and the neighbors who had been so kind to us over the years.
Thanks to the thorough cleaning performed by current and former staff of the Embassy, the interior, hallways, furniture, walls, kitchen, and entryway were all in immaculate condition. Embassy staff, too, felt a sense of nostalgia as we left.
As is well known, this house was designed by the renowned pianist and conductor Vladimir Ashkenazy. Over a period of approximately twelve years starting in 2014, five successive Japanese ambassadors have had activities thanks to this residence home. Through numerous events—including dinners and receptions—we had the pleasure of welcoming many Icelandic guests.
It is entirely due to support of everyone in Iceland that successive Japanese ambassadors were able to carry out their duties effectively while residing in this distinguished building. I thank each of you very much.
It is often said that Japanese people hold a deep attachment to their homes. The "Ashkenazy House," with its extensive use of wood and surrounding trees, exudes a sense of understated elegance. It was praised by the prominent Japanese architect Kengo Kuma.
I have heard that the people of Iceland also cherish their homes deeply. In a climate as harsh as this, the home serves as a vital hub for social interaction. I believe Japan and Iceland share a culture that places great value on the home and on neighborly relations. Indeed, I myself enjoyed wonderful, family-to-family interactions with the neighbors of the former residence.
I wish to express my renewed respect for the former residence and for the culture of home and community it represents.
The new official residence is currently being prepared, but I am confident it will serve us well in the future, and I ask for your continued goodwill and support.
The week prior, I visited the house and the neighborhood to bid farewell to the home and the neighbors who had been so kind to us over the years.
Thanks to the thorough cleaning performed by current and former staff of the Embassy, the interior, hallways, furniture, walls, kitchen, and entryway were all in immaculate condition. Embassy staff, too, felt a sense of nostalgia as we left.
As is well known, this house was designed by the renowned pianist and conductor Vladimir Ashkenazy. Over a period of approximately twelve years starting in 2014, five successive Japanese ambassadors have had activities thanks to this residence home. Through numerous events—including dinners and receptions—we had the pleasure of welcoming many Icelandic guests.
It is entirely due to support of everyone in Iceland that successive Japanese ambassadors were able to carry out their duties effectively while residing in this distinguished building. I thank each of you very much.
It is often said that Japanese people hold a deep attachment to their homes. The "Ashkenazy House," with its extensive use of wood and surrounding trees, exudes a sense of understated elegance. It was praised by the prominent Japanese architect Kengo Kuma.
I have heard that the people of Iceland also cherish their homes deeply. In a climate as harsh as this, the home serves as a vital hub for social interaction. I believe Japan and Iceland share a culture that places great value on the home and on neighborly relations. Indeed, I myself enjoyed wonderful, family-to-family interactions with the neighbors of the former residence.
I wish to express my renewed respect for the former residence and for the culture of home and community it represents.
The new official residence is currently being prepared, but I am confident it will serve us well in the future, and I ask for your continued goodwill and support.