Guida
The Former Endo Family Residence is a multi-layered thatched-roof house located in Tamatsumata, Tsuroka City, Yamagata Prefecture. It is a building that preserves the 'multi-layered house' style unique to this region and is designated as a Prefectural Tangible Cultural Property of Yamagata. Historically, this area served as a post town where travelers heading to the Yudono-san Shrine would stop, acting as a midpoint between the Shonai region on the Sea of Japan side and the inland Murayama region. The ingenuity required to accommodate both living spaces and guests within a limited plot of land led to this unique, three-dimensional architectural structure.
Because this region experiences heavy snowfall, there was a constant need to ensure living space while minimizing the impact of the snow. Consequently, the three-layered thatched architecture developed. Furthermore, as the silk industry flourished during the Meiji era, changes were seen in the architectural style. To ensure lighting and ventilation for the second and third floors, roof windows called 'Taka-happo' were installed on the flat parts of the roof. Additionally, the architecture evolved with industrial progress, such as the modification to the 'Kabuto-zukuri' style, where the gable ends were raised vertically. In 2016, the cultural value of this area was officially recognized as a component of the Japan Heritage.
The greatest attraction is the unique three-layered architectural style. This multi-layered structure, developed for snow management and space optimization, is a crystallization of local wisdom. You can also observe architectural details that changed with the eras, such as the 'Taka-happo' roof windows influenced by the silk industry and the 'Kabuto-zukuri' roof style. The heavy texture of the thatched roof and the design of the residence, which utilizes limited space three-dimensionally, serve as precious materials for understanding traditional Japanese lifestyles.
The building is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. You can observe traditional Japanese architectural styles regardless of the season. Given its history in a heavy snowfall region, it is interesting to observe the changing environment across seasons to understand the architectural ingenuity used to combat snow. However, please check local information regarding specific opening status depending on weather or season.
Here, you can actually tour the interior of a historical house and experience the architectural structure closely. Rather than just textbook knowledge, you can trace history through the actual construction, such as the division of space through the multi-layered structure and the modifications made for the silk industry. A visit typically takes about 30 minutes, allowing for an efficient exploration of the architectural features.
The surrounding area is rich in historical background. The Asahi area features various cultural heritages and beautiful natural landscapes. You can explore the local culture alongside the historical streetscapes and natural environment. There are also facilities nearby that offer local culinary culture.
When visiting the interior, please follow proper etiquette to protect the historical building. As there may be stairs or uneven steps, we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. The admission fee is 300 yen for high school students and older, and 200 yen for elementary and junior high school students. We recommend preparing cash. Additionally, please follow local instructions regarding photography within the facility.