Guide
The Kawaiya Residence is a National Important Cultural Property located in Imai Town, Kashihara City, Nara Prefecture. This building holds a significant history as a traditional sake brewery dating back to the Edo period. The exterior features a cedar ball (sugidama) hanging from the eaves, a classic symbol of a sake brewery. The architectural design is sophisticated, with an eastern side featuring an Irimoya-zukuri (hip-and-gable) roof and a western side with a Kirizuma-zukuri (gabled) roof, both finished with traditional heavy tiles. The second floor is characterized by white plaster walls and unique design elements like circular windows, showcasing a truly distinctive architectural style.
This residence was historically operated under the name 'Jonin-jiya' for the sake brewing business. According to family documents, there are records showing that the sake brewing business was already in operation by the year 1772 (Meiwa 9). As one of the earlier two-story machiya (townhouses) built in Imai Town, it is designated as a National Important Cultural Property for its ability to convey the lifestyle of wealthy merchants of that era. It serves as a precious cultural heritage site that preserves the connection between local industries and the residential forms that supported them.
The greatest attraction lies in its exquisite architectural design. The front of the building is adorned with thick, beautiful Yamato lattice (Yamato-koshi), embodying the elegance of a traditional townhouse. The white plaster walls of the second floor and the circular window designs reflect the high level of architectural skill and aesthetic sensibility of the time. During the first-floor tour, you can observe the structural details of a sake brewery and the layout of a merchant's living space. If you choose to tour the second floor, you can experience a more advanced level of architectural style and the layout of the formal reception rooms.
It is best to visit the Kawaiya Residence during the bright daylight hours. The sunlight helps highlight the shadows cast by the Yamato lattice and brings out the texture of the white plaster and the shapes of the windows. You can enjoy the atmosphere in a calm environment regardless of the season. Please note that the facility closes for a break between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM, so please plan your visit accordingly.
Here, you can observe the architecture of an Edo-period machiya up close. You can visually confirm the structural features of a building that functioned as a sake brewery and appreciate the beauty of the Yamato lattice. By booking a tour of the second floor (reservation required), you can see more than just the ground floor; you can explore the more intimate living spaces and the grander scale of a wealthy merchant's residence. It is a perfect place for a quiet moment of observation amidst a stroll through the historic streets.
The Kawaiya Residence is located in Imai Town, an area famous for its preserved historic cityscape. The surrounding streets are lined with many old machiya dating back to the Edo period, maintaining a beautiful and authentic landscape. Walking through the neighborhood allows you to feel the unique history and the traditional atmosphere characteristic of Nara Prefecture.
When visiting the building, please observe proper etiquette to protect this historical structure. As you may be required to remove your shoes to enter certain areas, please be mindful of your footwear. If you wish to tour the second floor, advanced reservation via telephone is required. Since English support may be limited, it is helpful to have a translation app ready on your smartphone. Please note that payment is primarily handled in cash.