Guide
The Motoyoshi Family Residence is the main house of a wealthy merchant family, built in 1889 in Uchiko, Ehime Prefecture. This region developed through the production of candle wax (mokuro) starting in the late Edo period, and the Motoyoshi family is renowned as the clan that laid its foundation. During the Meiji era, the family achieved great prosperity, even exporting products overseas under the brand name 'Asahitsuru.' Today, it is designated as a National Important Cultural Property. Visitors can admire the heavy, dignified architectural style and the meticulously maintained Japanese garden from the exterior.
The Motoyoshi lineage is said to have begun candle wax production around 1736 during the mid-Edo period. By 1840, the family moved to the current location and expanded their business on a large scale. During the Meiji era, as candle wax production became a major export industry, the family grew significantly. This residence served not only as a home but also as a vital historical hub that supported the regional economy. The building was designated as a National Important Cultural Property in 1990, serving as a precious asset that preserves the history of the region for future generations.
The most striking feature of the Motoyoti Family Residence is its exquisite ornamentation. The main building features traditional