Guide
The Yoshida-ke Residence is a magnificent estate of an indigo merchant built during the mid-to-late Edo period. It is located within the famous 'Udatsu Streetscape' in Waki, Mima City, Tokoshima. Established in 1792 (Kansei 4), the estate belonged to Naobei Yoshida, the head of the prosperous merchant house known as 'Sanao.' The expansive 600-tsubo (approx. 2,000 m²) grounds feature five distinct buildings—including the main residence, a collateral storehouse, and an indigo storehouse—arranged around a central courtyard. This layout provides a vivid look into the architectural styles and the lifestyle of wealthy indigo merchants of the time. Today, it is a designated cultural property of Mima City and is open to the public.
This estate preserves the deep history of the indigo (indigo dyeing) industry that flourished in the Tokushima region. The Yoshida family was one of the most prominent merchant families in Waki, and the architecture reflects their immense wealth and high social status. The buildings maintain the architectural styles of the mid-to-late Edo period and have played a vital role in preserving local history. The site also serves as a cultural hub; for example, every January, it hosts the 'Udatsu Ikeru' Ikebana (flower arrangement) exhibition, continuing the tradition of cultural heritage.
The grounds contain several buildings that tell the story of the era's industry and daily life. The central main house is surrounded by structures such as the indigo storehouse (used for storing indigo) and the collateral storehouse. These buildings serve as concrete historical records of merchant-class architecture during the Edo period. Additionally, just south of the main residence, there is a facility renovated from an old indigo storehouse. The first floor serves as a souvenir shop, while the second floor operates as a cafe, allowing visitors to browse local specialties and items related to the history of the indigo merchants.
The Yoshida-ke Residence is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Visiting during the bright daylight hours is highly recommended to appreciate the intricate architectural details and the layout of the courtyard. A particularly special time to visit is in January, when the annual Ikebana exhibition is held, offering a unique cultural experience. After exploring the surrounding historic streets, you can also enjoy a relaxing break at the on-site cafe.
At the Yoshida-ke Residence, you can experience the lifestyle of a wealthy Edo-period merchant through physical structures. You can learn about the functional roles of the indigo storehouse and the structural design of the main house. Furthermore, the cafe located within the grounds offers a unique opportunity to rest in a space that utilizes a historic building while enjoying local flavors and selecting souvenirs.
The residence is situated within the 'Udatsu no Machinami' (Udatsu Streetscape) area of Mima City. This area is a beautifully preserved historic district characterized by traditional architecture. The nearby renovated indigo storehouse shop and cafe serve as great hubs for travelers exploring the area. Walking through these streets allows you to feel the living history of the indigo merchants and the atmosphere of the entire town.
As the site contains historic architectural assets, we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. Please respect the cultural properties when moving through the buildings. Payments can be made via cash or credit card. English signage and informational materials are available to assist international visitors. While no prior reservation is required for individual visits, groups are encouraged to contact the facility in advance. Note that some areas may have uneven surfaces, so please exercise care.