Guida
The Kawai Family Residence is an Important Cultural Property situated in the historic Imai Town of Kashihara City, Nara Prefecture. This building holds a significant history as a sake brewery dating back to the Edo period. The exterior features a 'sugidama' (cedar ball) hanging from the eaves, a traditional symbol of a sake brewery. The architecture is a blend of styles: the eastern side features an 'irimoya' (hip-and-gable) roof, while the western side uses a 'kirizuma' (gabled) structure, both finished with traditional heavy tiles. The second floor is finished with white plaster (shikkui), and the design includes unique elements like circular windows, making it a highly distinctive architectural specimen.
This residence was once known by the name 'Jōjinji-ya' and was deeply involved in the sake brewing industry. Historical documents indicate that the business was already established by the year 1772 (Meiwa 9). As one of the earliest two-story townhouses built in Imai Town, it serves as a vital architectural record of the lives of wealthy merchants of that era. It is designated as a National Important Cultural Property, representing a precious cultural heritage that preserves the relationship between local industry and residential forms.
The greatest appeal lies in its exquisite architectural design. The front of the building features the 'Yamato lattice,' a thick, traditional wooden lattice that embodies the beauty of classic Japanese townhouses. The white plaster walls of the second floor and the decorative circular windows reflect the high level of craftsmanship and aesthetic sensibility of the time. When touring the first floor, visitors can observe the structural layout of a sake brewery and the functional design of a merchant's home. A tour of the second floor allows for a more detailed view of the advanced architectural styles and the elegant reception rooms.
For the best experience, we recommend visiting during the bright daylight hours. Natural sunlight beautifully highlights the shadows of the Yamato lattice, the texture of the white plaster, and the shapes of the windows. The atmosphere remains calm and historical regardless of the season. Please note that the facility closes for a break between 12:00 and 13:00, so please plan your visit accordingly to avoid this time.
Visitors can observe the architecture of an Edo-period sake brewery up close. You can visually confirm the structural functions of the building and the elegance of the Yamato lattice. By booking a tour of the second floor (reservation required), you can move beyond the ground-floor view to experience the more intimate living spaces and the sophisticated interior design used by wealthy families of the period. It is a perfect place for a quiet moment of contemplation while observing architectural details amidst a historic cityscape.
The Kawai Family Residence is located in Imai Town, an area strictly preserved for its historical streetscape. The surrounding neighborhood is lined with many old townhouses (machiya) dating back to the Edo period, maintaining a remarkably authentic atmosphere. A stroll through this area allows you to feel the unique history and traditional landscape characteristic of Nara Prefecture.
To protect this historical structure, please follow all rules while inside. As you may be required to remove your shoes to enter certain areas, please be mindful of your footwear. If you wish to tour the second floor, a prior telephone reservation is mandatory. Since English-language guidance may be limited, it is helpful to have a translation app ready on your smartphone. Payment is primarily accepted in cash. Please respect the silence and avoid eating or drinking inside the building to preserve the heritage.