Guide
The Arakawa-ke Residence is a traditional folk house designated as a National Important Cultural Property, located in Nyukawa, Takayama City, Gifu Prefecture. It serves as a symbol of Hida's history, preserving architectural styles from the mid-Eğdo period. In addition to the main residence and earthen storehouse, the adjacent Historical and Folklore Museum displays various materials related to the local way of life. It is a precious site where you can experience traditional Japanese architectural techniques and the daily life of ancient farmers.
This residence belongs to a long-standing family lineage dating back to the Tensho era (1573–1592). The family moved to this area following Mori Nagachika's appointment to the Hida region and played a significant role in managing the surrounding area throughout the Edo period. According to historical records, the current main residence was built in 1794 (Kansei 8), while the earthen storehouse is even older, dating back to 1747 (Enkyo 4). The site is now preserved and open to the public as a protected cultural asset.
The greatest attraction is the architecture of the main residence and storehouse, both designated as National Important Cultural Properties. The buildings showcase the exquisite skills of Hida's master craftsmen and represent traditional Japanese construction. Inside, you can view precious historical documents, including letters written by the famous daimyo Date Masamote to Mori Nagachika. Furthermore, the adjacent museum displays photographs of Mt. Yarigatake by Mitsuhiro Hosoe, along with local tools, stone Buddhas, and items from the Showa era, allowing visitors to trace the history of local life.
Opening hours vary depending on the season. From June to September, the residence is open from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. For the rest of the year (October to May), it is open from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. We recommend visiting during the bright daylight hours to fully appreciate the intricate details of the traditional wooden architecture and the clarity of the exhibited historical documents.
Visitors can observe the unique structural elements of a traditional Japanese farmhouse. For example, you can see the 'Maya'—a space adjacent to the entrance used for keeping horses—and the structural layout where the second floor was utilized for sericulture (silkworm farming). You can also observe the 'Oe' (hearth) and the 'Niwa' (work area), which demonstrate the clever architectural designs tailored to the practical needs of daily life.
Takayama City is home to many other historical buildings and cultural assets. The Nyukawa area, where the residence is located, offers a beautiful landscape where the nature of the Hida region blends seamlessly with history. We recommend exploring the surrounding natural environment alongside the historic streetscapes.
As this is a traditional wooden structure and a precious cultural property, please be mindful of your footing and observe proper etiquette by not touching the building or the exhibits. While there is no admission fee, we recommend carrying cash for your surrounding sightseeing activities. Please note that English-language support may be limited, so it is helpful to check details in advance.