Guide
The Hakogi-ke Residence, widely known by its nickname "Hakogi Sennen-ke," is one of Japan's most significant historical folk houses. Located in the Kita Ward of Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture, it is designated as a National Important Cultural Property. Due to its profound antiquity, it is estimated to be one of the oldest traditional dwellings in Japan, serving as a living textbook of the Muromachi period's architectural styles. It is more than just an old building; it is a testament to the evolution of Japanese residential structures and the wisdom of ancestral living.
The history of this residence is exceptionally deep, with some accounts tracing its origins back to the year 806 (Daido 1). It is said to have been the residence of a clan serving the Bessho clan, a powerful family that once ruled this region. The name "Sennen-ke" (Thousand-Year House) symbolizes a history of being carefully preserved over many centuries. The site was designated as a National Important Cultural Property in 1967. Interestingly, the residence was relocated to its current location in the 1970s to prevent it from being submerged during the construction of the Tonbo Dam. Carbon dating performed during the relocation revealed that the timber used in the main house's pillars dates back to the late 13th century (Kamakura period), scientifically validating its immense historical value.
The greatest attraction is the pair of structures: the "Omoya" (Main House), believed to have been built during the Muromachi period, and the "Hanare" (Annex) from the Edo period. The Main House features a heavy, dignified structure that showcases the essence of traditional Japanese architectural beauty. The surrounding grounds include a courtyard, artificial hills (tsukiyama), storehouses, and outbuildings, allowing visitors to experience the spatial layout of a traditional rural life. These structures beautifully demonstrate the evolution of Japanese craftsmanship and the harmony between human habitation and nature.
Set within a lush, natural environment, the residence offers a different atmosphere with every season. We highly recommend visiting when the greenery is particularly vibrant or during times when the seasonal transitions are most noticeable. Please note that this facility is only open on weekends (Saturdays and Sundays), so checking your schedule in advance is essential. Visiting during bright daylight hours will allow you to clearly observe the intricate wooden joinery and the fine details of the historical architectural components.
Visitors can step inside the historical structures to experience the living space of a bygone era. Through the displayed materials and the preserved architectural framework, you can learn about the ingenuity of traditional Japanese housing. For architecture enthusiasts, seeing how the buildings were expanded and connected from the Muromachi period through to the Edo period provides a fascinating visual lesson in architectural evolution.
The area around the Hakogi-ke Residence is a beautiful, nature-rich part of Kobe's Kita Ward. Nearby, you can find Lake Tsukuhara, perfect for nature walks and enjoying scenic views. After your historical tour, we recommend spending a relaxing time enjoying the surrounding natural environment and the quiet atmosphere of this historic region.
When entering the interior of the buildings, you will frequently be asked to remove your shoes to protect the historic floors. We recommend wearing easy-to-remove footwear and clean socks. To preserve these precious cultural assets, entering non-designated areas or touching the exhibits is strictly prohibited. Please be prepared to pay with cash, as it is often required for entrance fees.