The Toyotake Residence is a Machiya (traditional townhouse) in Imaicho, Kashihara City, Nara Prefecture, designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. Built in the early Edo period, it served as the residence of the wealthy timber merchant, Makimura Seiuemon. Currently open to the public, it offers a glimpse into the lives of people during that era.
The Toyota family's residence is located slightly west of Shonenji Temple on Mido-suji Street. While their family business was known as "Kamihachi" and they branched off and relocated around the late Edo period, it originally belonged to Makimura Seiuemon, a wealthy merchant who used the name "Nishi no Kiya" (Western Wood Shop) and served as a storekeeper for the Fukui Domain. The "wood" character, representing their family crest, still remains on the upper part of the front wall. The construction date was revealed through the imprint on the onigawara (demon tile) during the house's repair and restoration.
The roof is a hipped and gabled style with clay tiles, boasting a high eaves, and a protruding second-floor eaves (degeta-zukuri), resulting in a magnificent exterior. The interior features an earth floor and shimomise (ground-floor shop) on the east side, with a well-organized six-room living area. The building's age is reflected in various features, including the nando-gamae (storeroom structure) and other elements that maintain traditional building techniques.
The Toyotake Residence is a precious building showcasing the architectural style of traditional Japanese townhouses. Take your time exploring, and imagine the lives of those who lived there long ago.
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