Guida
The Hakogi Family Residence, widely known by its nickname "Hakogi Senne-ke" (The Thousand-Year Hakogi House), is one of Japan's most iconic historical folk houses. Located in the Kita Ward of Kobe, Hyogo Prefecture, it is officially designated as a National Important Cultural Property. Due to its profound historical depth, it is estimated to be one of the oldest residential structures in Japan, serving as a living textbook that preserves the architectural styles of the Muromachi period. It is not merely an old building, but a testament to the evolution of Japanese residential structures and the wisdom of traditional living.
The history of this residence is remarkably ancient, with some accounts tracing its origins back to the year 806. It is said to have served the lineage of the Bessho clan, who once ruled this region. The name "Senne-ke" (Thousand-Year House) symbolizes the long history of the home being carefully preserved over centuries. In 1967, it was designated as a National Important Cultural Property. Interestingly, the house was relocated to its current site during the 1970s to prevent it from being submerged by the construction of the Tonato Dam. Carbon dating performed during the relocation process revealed that the timber used in the main house's pillars dates back to the late 13th century (Kamakura period), scientifically validating its immense historical value.
The greatest attraction is the pair of buildings: the "Omoya" (Main House), believed to have been built during the Muromachi period, and the "Hanare" (Annex) from the Edo period. The main house features a heavy, dignified structure that showcases the essence of traditional Japanese architectural beauty. Visitors can also explore the surrounding courtyard, artificial hills, storehouses, and outbuildings, which provide a tangible sense of the spatial layout of ancient rural life. These structures beautifully demonstrate the evolution of Japanese craftsmanship and the harmony between humans and nature.
Set within a lush, natural environment, the residence displays a different face with every season. We highly recommend visiting when the surrounding greenery is particularly vibrant or during times when the changing seasons are most palpable. Please note that the site is only open on weekends (Saturdays and Sundays), so checking your schedule in advance is essential. Visiting during the bright daylight hours allows for a clearer observation of the intricate wood joinery and the fine details of the historical architectural components.
Here, you can step inside the historical structures to experience the living space of the past. Through the displayed materials and the preserved architectural framework, you can learn about the ingenuity behind traditional Japanese housing. For architecture enthusiasts, observing how the buildings were expanded and connected from the Muromachi period through the Edo period provides a fascinating visual lesson in architectural evolution.
The residence is located in the scenic Kita Ward of Kobe, an area rich in nature. Nearby, you can enjoy a relaxing stroll around Lake Tsukahara to appreciate the beautiful landscapes. After your historical tour, we recommend spending some quiet time enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and the natural scenery of the surrounding area.
As you will be entering the interior of the historical buildings, you will frequently be required to remove your shoes to protect the floors. We recommend wearing easy-to-remove footwear and clean socks. To preserve these precious cultural assets, entering non-designated areas or touching the exhibits is strictly prohibited. Please ensure you have cash on hand, as payment may require cash-only-based transactions.