Guida
The Former Nara Family Residence is a magnificent architectural structure built during the Horeki era (1751–1763) of the mid-Edo period. It served as the residence of the Nara family, a prominent and wealthy farming family in Akita Prefecture. Records indicate that the construction of this grand estate required three years of labor and a massive investment of 70 kan of silver. The building is famous for its unique 'Ryochumon-zukuri' style, characterized by two entrance gates protruding from the front. It was officially designated as a National Important Cultural Property on May 29, 1965. The complex includes the main house and seven auxiliary buildings, such as storehouses and traditional residences built between the Meiji and Taisho eras, all of which were registered as Tangible Cultural Properties in 2006.
The Nara family was a highly influential lineage in the Akita region. This residence is more than just a home; it serves as a vital historical record of the social structure and economic power of the era. The 'Ryochumon-zukuri' architectural style is a specific form found in farmhouses along the central coast of Akita. Furthermore, the site holds deep historical significance as it houses the 'Meiji Emperor Rest Area,' a structure relocated here from the site where Emperor Meiji rested during his imperial progress through Hokkaido and the Tohoku region. The layout and structures reflect the lifestyle of the time, including the culture of livestock management and local spiritual beliefs.
The most striking feature is the structure consisting of the 'Zashiki Chumon' (Upper Gate) on the left and the 'Maya Chumon' (Lower Gate) on the right. The wide earthen floor (doma) served as a functional space for farming and household chores, and even housed horses. You can find artifacts like a monkey skull, which was used in rituals to pray for the health of horses, reflecting the spiritual life of the period. In the center of the earthen floor, there is a large 'Niwa-irori' (sunken hearth) with an octagonal pillar, demonstrating the center of domestic life. Visitors can also observe a blend of different architectural styles, from the formal 'Shoin-zukuri' style of the upper rooms to the 'Oe' (family gathering space) and the historic rest area used by the Emperor.
The residence can be enjoyed in any season. To fully appreciate the intricate details of the Edo-period architecture, we recommend visiting during bright daylight hours. This makes it much easier to observe the structural nuances of the earthen floors and the traditional rooms. Since the tour is primarily focused on indoor viewing, the experience is relatively unaffected by weather conditions.
The grounds are dotted with historic storehouses and residences from the Meiji and Taisho eras, which together form a complete picture of historical living spaces. You can visually explore ingenious architectural features, such as the 'Doen' (veranda/edge) designed to prevent cold air from entering the house, and the 'Wakaze' (attic space) where male servants lived. Additionally, the site features artistic elements like the painted wooden doors decorated with cranes and bamboo, attributed to the Akita clan's official painter, Kano Kyushin (Shusui).
The site serves as a branch of the Akita Prefectural Museum, acting as a hub for local history. The surrounding area is rich in facilities that deal with regional history and folklore, making it an excellent spot for cultural exploration.
When walking through the historic buildings, please watch your step. To preserve the precious cultural assets, please be mindful of your movements and follow all instructions regarding removing shoes. Photography policies may vary; please follow the local staff's guidance regarding filming or taking photos inside the buildings.