Guide
The Former Nara Family Residence is a historic architectural complex built during the Horeki era (1751–1763) of the mid-Edo period. It served as the residence of the Nara family, a prominent and wealthy farming family in Akita Prefecture. Records indicate that the construction of this grand estate took three years and cost 70 kan of silver. The building is famous for its distinctive 'Ryuchumon-zukuri' style, characterized by two entrance gates that protrude forward. It was designated as a National Important Cultural Property on May 29, 1965. The estate includes the main house and seven auxiliary buildings, such as storehouses and traditional residences built between the Meiji and Taisho eras, all of which were registered as Registered Tangible Cultural Properties in 2006.
The Nara family was a highly influential lineage in Akita. This residence is more than just a home; it serves as a vital historical record of the social structure and economic power of the era. The 'Ryuchumon-zukuri' architectural style is a unique form found among wealthy farmhouses along the central coast of Akita. Furthermore, the site holds deep historical significance due to the presence of the 'Emperor Meiji Rest Area,' a structure relocated here that was once used by Emperor Meiji during his travels through the Hokkaido and Tohoku regions. The layout and structures reflect the lifestyle of rural Japan, including the culture of raising horses and local religious-cultural practices.
The most striking feature is the structure formed by the 'Zashiki Chumon' (upper gate) on the front left and the 'Maya Chumon' (lower gate) on the right. The 'doma' (earthen floor) area functioned as a workspace for farming and household chores, and visitors can see where horses were once kept. You may even find artifacts like a monkey skull, which was used in rituals to pray for the health of horses. In the center of the earthen floor, there is an octagonal pillar and a large 'niwai-irori' (sunken hearth), illustrating the center of daily life. The estate also features a blend of architectural styles, from the formal 'Shoin-zukuri' style to the 'Oe' (family gathering area) and the Emperor Meiji rest area.
The residence can be enjoyed in any season. Visiting during bright daylight hours is highly recommended to clearly observe the intricate details of the architecture, such as the earthen floors and the traditional seating areas. Since the experience is centered around indoor viewing, it is a reliable activity regardless of the weather.
The grounds are dotted with historical storehouses and residences from the Meiji and Taisho eras, providing a complete picture of a traditional living space. Visitors can observe architectural ingenuity, such as the 'doen' (veranda) designed to prevent cold air from entering the house, and the 'wakaze' (attic space) where male servants lived. Additionally, the estate contains artistic elements, such as painted wooden doors featuring cranes and bamboo, attributed to the artist Kano Kyushin (Shusui), a painter for the Akita clan.
The site serves as a branch of the Akita Prefectural Museum, acting as a hub for local history. The surrounding area features several facilities dedicated to regional history and folklore, making it an excellent area for cultural exploration.
Please be mindful of your footing when walking through the buildings. To preserve these historic structures, please be careful when removing and putting on your shoes. When taking photographs, please follow the local instructions regarding photography restrictions to protect the cultural assets.