Guida
The Former Tashiro Family Western-style Residence, also known as Arita Ijinkan, is a remarkable architectural piece located in Arita, Saga Prefecture. It was originally constructed during the Meiji era to serve as a lodging and reception facility for foreign merchants visiting to trade in high-quality Japanese ceramics. One of its most striking features is the elegant spiral staircase, which was a revolutionary and sophisticated design for its time. While the exterior is a beautiful testament to history, the interior is only open to the public on specific designated days.
Constructed in 1876 (the 9th year of the Meiji era), this building represents a unique period of Japanese history when international trade was expanding. The architecture is a seamless blend of traditional Japanese aesthetics and Western structural elements, designed specifically to accommodate the needs of foreign visitors. Due to its immense historical and architectural significance, the building was designated as a National Important Cultural Property on December 25, 2018.
The interior showcases exquisite design elements characteristic of the Meiji era. The most notable feature is the internal spiral staircase, which serves as a centerpiece of the building's unique architectural identity. Visitors can experience the atmosphere of a time when Japanese tradition met Western influence, creating a space that is both nostalgic and culturally profound.
To explore the interior of this historic residence, you must plan your visit around specific dates. The building is open to the public on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays. Additionally, it is open during the famous Arita Pottery Market (from April 29th to May 5th) and the Autumn Arita Ceramic Festival. The opening hours are from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Visiting during these seasonal festivals allows you to enjoy the architectural beauty alongside the vibrant energy of the local pottery-making community.
On open days, visitors can step inside to observe the structural details of a Meiji-era merchant's residence. It offers a rare glimpse into the lifestyle and environments that foreign merchants experienced while engaging in the ceramic trade, providing a deep connection to the history of Arita's porcelain culture.
The residence is centrally located in the heart of Arita Town. The surrounding area is filled with shops selling authentic Arita-ware porcelain and various facilities related to the ceramic festivals. During the Arita Pottery Market or the Autumn Ceramic Festival, the entire neighborhood becomes a bustling, lively hub of commerce and culture.
Since you will be exploring a historical structure, we highly recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. As this is a preserved historical site, please move with care and respect the building's integrity. Because the interior is only open on limited days, please be sure to check the schedule before your visit to ensure you don't miss the opportunity to see the interior.