Guida
The Former Nate Honjin (Imoseke Residence) is a precious collection of historical buildings located in Nate Ichiba, Kinokawa City, Wakayama Prefecture, which preserves the history of the Edo period. This site was the residence of the Imose family, who served as the great village headmen (Oshoya) and local leaders of the Kishu Domain throughout the Edo period. The grounds contain buildings that served as the 'Honjin' (official lodging) for daimyo during their travels to Edo, as well as the 'Yakusho' (government office) where administrative duties were performed. The main house, rice storehouse, and southern storehouse are designated as National Important Cultural Properties, and the entire site is protected as a National Historic Site. It is a highly valuable cultural facility that allows visitors to visually understand not only traditional Japanese architectural styles but also the social structures and daily life of the era.
The site centers around the residence of the Imose family, who had served as the headmen of Nate since 1630. Due to its location along the Yamato Kaido, it served as a vital hub for the Kishu Domain's daimyo processions (Sankin-kotai) and hunting expeditions. The current main house was rebuilt during the mid-18th century (Kyoho to Horeki eras) following a fire during the Shotoku era. A rare feature of this site is the coexistence of the Honjin (lodging) and the Yakusho (office) on the same grounds, representing a unique structural layout. This comprehensive preservation of the roles of Honjin, local leader, and village headman led to its designation as a National Historic Site. Furthermore, the site holds deep literary significance as the setting for the home of the protagonist in Sawako Ariyoshi's masterpiece, 'The Wife of Dr. Hanaoka Seishu.'
The greatest highlight is the 'Main House,' where you can feel the architectural techniques of the Edo period up close. The house features prestigious spaces such as the entrance, the ceremonial platform (shikidai), the shop room, the reception room, and the inner-palace rooms. The traditional hipped-and-gable roof (irimoya-zukuri) and the beautiful structural beams are must-sees. Additionally, the 'Rice Storehouse' and 'Southern Storehouse' are highly significant; these earthen-walled structures tell the story of surviving historical fires. The presence of the gates (Onari-mon and Tsuyodo-mon) and the two buildings that functioned as government offices allow for a three-dimensional understanding of the social systems and lifestyles of the time.
Seasonal exhibitions and events bring the history to life. For example, during the 'Peach Festival' in March, Hina dolls (traditional dolls) are displayed within the historic buildings, and in May, samurai armor is exhibited for the 'Boy's Festival.' These are wonderful opportunities to feel closer to traditional culture. Around October, you may witness a historical procession recreating the 'Moraiteki-no-gi' (the wedding ceremony of Kae, the wife of Hanaoka Seishu), allowing you to experience the breath of history directly. Visiting during daylight hours is recommended to fully appreciate the intricate architectural details and the beauty of the gardens.
Beyond simple sightseeing, you can learn about the structure of the traditional Japanese 'home' and the lifestyle of Edo-period samurai and village leaders. You can also reflect on the historical stories of medicine and family through the lens of the novel 'The Wife of Dr. Hanaoka Seishu.' Visiting during seasonal events provides a deeper understanding of ancient customs. Observing the quiet beauty of the old townscape and architecture within this historical landscape offers a truly special experience.
There are several spots nearby to deepen your cultural journey. You can visit 'Seishu's Village' (Seishu no Sato), which includes Haruninken, Flower Hill Museum, and the Hanaoka Seishu Memorial Park, to connect the historical context. Nearby religious sites like Kofuku-ji Temple (one of the Sanjusankodo pilgrimage sites), Komyo-ji Temple, and Juzen-ritsu-in Temple can also be included in a route exploring the rich history and culture of Wakayama.
As this is a delicate historical site, please be mindful of your behavior. Since you will be required to remove your shoes to enter certain areas, we recommend wearing easy-to-remove shoes and bringing clean socks. Photography may be restricted in certain areas to protect the structures and exhibits; please follow local instructions. While there is no admission fee, having cash on hand is useful for nearby facilities or transportation. As English support may be limited, we recommend checking maps and information in advance.