Guida
The Former Ushijima Residence is a historic machiya (traditional townhouse) located in Saga City, Saga Prefecture. Originally situated in the Asahi-cho area (formerly Shimoiimadzu-cho), it is believed to be the oldest machiya architecture in the former Saga castle town. The building is characterized by its massive, sturdy structural framework typical of the mid-Edo period, paired with the refined interior designs of the Meiji era. Currently preserved as part of the Saga City Museum of History and Folklore, it is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Saga City. It serves as a precious architectural relic that tells the story of a space that functioned multi-purposefully as a residence, a retail shop, and a warehouse.
The history of this building dates back to the early 18th century. Records from the mid-19th century, such as the 'Saga Joka-machi Kamado-cho,' note that an ashigaru (foot soldier) named Isuke Takayasu lived here and operated a wholesale business. Furthermore, the 1890 publication 'Saga-ken Dokunai' describes the shop of Iyosuke Takayasu as a 'tobacco wholesaler and maritime transport business,' and the site was used for the oil trade during the late Meiji period. This demonstrates how the building's function evolved alongside the changing economic and social needs of the local community.
After World War II, the building came under the ownership of the Ushijima family. Although it was nearly demolished during road widening construction in 1993, its historical value was preserved by reassembling the original components and relocating the structure to its current site in its late-Meiji period form. It was officially designated as a Saga City Important Cultural Property in 1995, continuing its role in passing down historical knowledge to future generations.
The most striking feature of the Former Ushijima Residence is the vast 'doma' (earthen floor) and the powerful, heavy timber framework that retains the essence of mid-Edo period architecture. The solid, imposing structure demonstrates the high level of construction technology of that era. Additionally, the fusion of Edo-period structural strength with Meiji-era interior aesthetics allows visitors to observe the seamless transition and evolution of Japanese architectural styles. The spatial layout, designed to accommodate residential, commercial, and storage functions, provides invaluable insight into the lifestyle of the time.
The facility is open year-round during the standard operating hours of the Saga City Museum of History and Folklore. To best appreciate the intricate details of the heavy timber frames and the delicate Meiji-era designs, we recommend visiting during daylight hours when the natural light illuminates the interior textures. It is a serene environment perfect for quiet contemplation of traditional Japanese structural design regardless of the season.
As part of the Saga City Museum of History and Folklore, visitors can learn about the structural evolution of traditional Japanese townhouses. By observing the actual architectural components, you can understand how the building transitioned through its various roles as a home, a shop, and a warehouse. It is a rare opportunity to witness a precious cultural asset that embodies the history of the Saga castle town.
The Former Ushijima Residence is located within the grounds of the Saga City Museum of History and Folklore. The surrounding area is dotted with other historically significant buildings, such as the Former Koga Bank, the Former Koga Family Residence, the Former Sansei Bank, and the Former Fukuda and Morinaga family residences. Exploring these sites together will provide a much deeper understanding of the commercial and financial history of the former Saga castle town.
For any fees or nearby services, it is highly recommended to carry cash, as electronic payments may not be available.
Please note that English language support and signage within the facility are limited.
No advance reservation is required to visit the site.
As you are exploring a historical architectural site, comfortable walking shoes are recommended. You may be required to remove your shoes before entering certain parts of the building to protect the historic floors.
Please follow the local instructions and signs regarding photography of the building and its exhibits.
As this is a traditional machiya structure, there are uneven floors, steps, and earthen-floor areas. Please watch your step for safety.