Former Nakajima Residence

Overview

The Former Nakajima Residence, located in Minakami-machi, Gunma Prefecture, is a wealthy farmer's house built in the late Edo period. It's designated as a Registered Tangible Cultural Property of Japan. This area once thrived as a post town on the Mikuni Kaido (highway), and the Former Nakajima Residence represents the affluent lifestyle of a leading wealthy farmer of the time. The vast property features a main house, storehouses, and outbuildings, providing invaluable insight into the living styles and architectural techniques of wealthy farmers of that era. The main house is a magnificent two-story wooden structure with a tiled roof. The interior retains its original furniture and furnishings, offering a glimpse into daily life. The study (shoin) in particular showcases exquisite craftsmanship in its latticework and ceiling, highlighting the advanced architectural skills of the time. The storehouses were used to store preserved foods like miso and soy sauce, serving as valuable resources for understanding the food culture of the period. The outbuilding served as a guest house, and the beautiful garden features a pond and rock formations, reflecting the aesthetic sensibilities of wealthy farmers of the time. The Former Nakajima Residence is a precious place not only for its glimpse into the lives of wealthy farmers but also for learning about the architectural techniques and cultural life of the Edo period. Be sure to visit when you're in Minakami-machi!