Ando Family House on the Hokkoku Highway

Overview

The Ando Family House on the Hokkoku Highway is a historic building located in Nagahama City, Shiga Prefecture. It was built in 1905 (Meiji 38) by Ando Yosouzhiro as the residence of the Ando family, who served as the head of the Nagahama Ju-nin Shu (ten-person group) throughout the Edo period, appointed by Nagahama's lord, Toyotomi Hideyoshi. From the end of the Edo period, the Ando family operated as merchants in the Omi region, expanding their trade to the Tohoku region. They are also connected through marriage to the Nakamura Jirobei family of Go-sho Ishibashi-dera temple, and are founding family of Nakagō, a long-established department store in Fukushima. The Ando family house features architectural elements characteristic of modern merchant houses, such as mushikago-mado (insect-proof windows) and beni-gara kōshi (red-shell lattice), offering a glimpse into the lifestyle of merchants during that era. The detached study, "Sho-rantei," located in the garden, is renowned for its fusuma (sliding doors) and ceiling paintings by Rosanjin Kitaoji. The name "Sho-rantei" is said to be derived from the "Rantei" study in the scenic garden of Daioh-ji Temple. Rosanjin's artwork harmonizes with the study's atmosphere, creating a unique and captivating space. Kosuien, the garden in front of Sho-rantei, is a traditional Japanese garden built in 1914 (Taisho 3) by Ujiki Fuse. Combined with Rosanjin's artwork, it creates a truly enchanting environment. Sho-rantei is open to the public twice a year, in spring and autumn. It's a must-see, even if you're not a Rosanjin fan. The Ando Family House is a valuable site where you can experience the history and culture of Nagahama. Why not spend some relaxing time immersed in the history of Omi merchants and Rosanjin's artistry?