Guide
The Tsuyama City Joto Traditional Buildings Preservation District, located in Tsuyama City, Okayama Prefecture, is a beautifully preserved area featuring traditional architecture spanning from the Edo period to the early Showa era. In 2013, it was officially designated as a National Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings. This district retains the distinct character of a castle town developed around the Tsuyama Domain, characterized by a scenic row of merchant houses along the Izumo Orai road. The unique layout features standardized street widths and depths, with historical drainage systems still visible. Today, approximately 160 historic buildings remain, offering a vivid window into the lifestyle of an early modern merchant town.
The history of this district dates back to the construction of Tsuyama Castle in 1603. While samurai quarters were established around the castle, the merchant district flourished on the east side of the Miyagawa River along the Izumo Orai trade route. Historical records show that the area was a center of intense economic activity, with frequent land-use changes and developments. Even after the Edo period, the area remained a bustling hub for goods transported via Takase-bune boats, supporting the region's growth through the Meiji era. To protect this precious heritage, the area is now strictly managed as a preservation district.
The district is home to numerous National Important Cultural Properties and Registered Tangible Cultural Properties. A standout landmark is the "Former Karda Family Residence (Former Karda Sake Brewery)," a center for sake brewing since the mid-Edo period. This massive complex includes a main house, several earthen storehouses (kura), and a long-style gate (nagayamon) dating back to the mid-Edo period. Another significant site is the "Former Residence of Mǐsaku Genpo," the birthplace of the renowned Edo-period Dutch scholar. Additionally, at the "Joto Mukashi Machiya (Former Kajimura Residence)," built in the late Edo period, visitors can observe diverse architectural styles, including the Western-style German wall finish, reflecting the status of the family that served as money changers (tsumamoto).
As the preservation district consists of outdoor streets, walking is the primary way to explore. Because the area includes narrow alleys, stairs, and uneven surfaces, we highly recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. Since many buildings are private residences or protected historical sites, please observe local etiquette to respect the residents and the heritage.