Panduan
Watanabetei is a historic residence located in Sekikawa Village, Niigata Prefecture, with roots dating back to the Edo period. In 1954, the main house, rice storehouse, miso storehouse, and gold storehouse were designated as National Important Cultural Properties. Additionally, the garden was designated as a National Place of Scenic Beauty in 1963. The main house features a massive "Ishioki Kobuya-yane" (stone-weighted wooden shingle roof), a structure designed to withstand harsh natural environments while maintaining exquisite aesthetic beauty. The vast grounds offer a seamless blend of historical buildings and a garden that changes its expression through the four seasons, allowing visitors to feel the harmony between traditional Japanese architectural techniques and nature.
The history of the Watanabe family began in 1667 when the first head, Giemon Yoshitaka, moved to this location. Throughout the Edo period, the family was a prominent wealthy farmer lineage that contributed significantly to the regional economy through diverse businesses such as sake brewing, shipping, finance, and agriculture, while maintaining deep ties with the Yonezawa Clan. They even achieved high social status, receiving the right to use surnames and swords from the Shogunate. The current imposing structure reflects renovations made in 1817, serving not just as a residence but as a vital historical monument that symbolizes the culture and history of the region.
The greatest attraction is the main house, which boasts an area of approximately 500 tsubo, and its unique roof structure. The "Kobuya-yane" (wooden shingle roof) reinforced with stones is an extremely rare architectural style. Inside, you can find sliding door paintings (fusuma-e) and shoji screens that preserve the lifestyle of the Edo period. The garden is designed as a "strolling pond garden" using the Enshu-style method, embodying the philosophy of "Teiya Ichinyo" (the unity of garden and house). Every detail, from the nail-less wood-joining techniques to the exquisite carvings on the transoms (ranma), showcases the high-level craftsmanship of Japanese artisans.
Watanabetei offers a completely different atmosphere depending on the season: fresh greenery in spring, deep lushness in summer, vibrant autumn colors, and a serene snowy landscape in winter. The garden is particularly beautiful in any season. The regular visiting hours are from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM (last entry at 3:30 PM). Visiting during daylight hours is recommended to clearly observe the architectural details and the colors of the garden. Please note that during the winter season (December 20 to February 20), the hours change to 9:30 AM – 3:00 PM (last entry 2:30 PM).
To deepen your understanding of this historical space, various guide services are available. On weekends and holidays, free guided tours are held (10:30–11:15 and 14:00–14:45, excluding winter). A paid guide service (1,000 JPY per person) is also available. Additionally, seasonal events such as "New Year Decoration Workshops" are sometimes held. These provide a precious opportunity to learn about the life and architectural techniques of the past while walking through the historic grounds.
The Sekikawa Village Hall is located directly in front of Watanabe House. Visitors can also purchase a combined ticket to visit the nearby "Rekishi to Michi no Kan" (History and Road Museum) to gain a more comprehensive understanding of local history. There is also a combined ticket available for the "Yu-mu" day-trip hot spring facility, allowing you to enjoy a relaxing soak after your sightseeing. Sekikawa Village is well known for its beautiful scenery of mountains, rivers, and hot springs.