Guida
The Toyoda Family Residence is a significant historical structure designated as a Registered Tangible Cultural Property in Kurayoshi City, Tottori Prefecture. The complex consists of a main building completed in 1900 (Meiji 33) and an annex added in 1930 (Showa 5). Originally serving as a merchant house for a textile business, this residence is a precious example of the traditional Kurayoshi Machiya style. The architecture features a gabled roof (Kirizuma-zukuri) with traditional eaves and a structure that allows visitors to observe the daily life and advanced craftsmanship of the merchant class from the early 20th century.
The residence preserves the architectural styles spanning from the Meiji era to the early Showa era. The main house reflects the elegance of the Meiji period, while the annex showcases the refined aesthetics of the early Showa era. This location is deeply rooted in local lore, including stories related to the great merchant Yodoya and the legendary 'Eight Wise Men of Satomi.' Beyond its architectural value, the residence serves as a cultural hub for preserving and passing down the historical narratives of the region through oral traditions.
The most striking feature is the opportunity to observe the intricate details of traditional Machiya architecture. The main building features a 'degeta-zukuri' style, where the eaves are supported by decorative brackets, and the walls are finished with traditional white plaster (shikkui). The annex, connected to the main house by a corridor, showcases high-quality materials and sophisticated Japanese craftsmanship from the early 20th century. These structures offer a profound lesson in the construction techniques of traditional Japanese dwellings.
The residence is open from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The bright daylight hours are ideal for appreciating the textures of the plaster walls and the intricate wooden structures. To experience history through sound, we highly recommend visiting during the scheduled 'Rekishi Kodan' (historical storytelling) sessions. Please note that the reception for storytelling ends at 3:30 PM, so we suggest arriving with plenty of time to spare.
Visitors can enjoy 'Rekishi Kodan,' a traditional form of Japanese oral storytelling. The themes range from the history of the great merchant Yodoya to the legendary 'Eight Wise Men of Satomi' and even episodes related to the Imperial Family in modern Japan. These performances provide a deep connection to the local heritage. Additionally, on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays, you can participate in a 'Glass Engraving Experience,' where you can decorate glass plates with patterns or text using traditional techniques.
The Toyoda Family Residence is located near the 'Shirakabe Dozo' (White-walled Storehouse District) and the Circular Theater in Kurayoshi. This area is famous for its beautifully preserved historic streets. A stroll through the neighborhood allows you to enjoy the scenic views of traditional storehouses and merchant houses, making it a perfect destination for a cultural walking tour.
As this is a historic building, please be mindful of your movements. You may be required to remove your shoes to enter certain areas, so we recommend wearing clean socks. Please handle the architecture and exhibits with extreme care. For the storytelling sessions, cash is required for the admission fee (Kido-sen). While storytelling can be joined on the day of your visit, the Glass Engraving Experience is highly recommended to be booked in advance via LINE or other methods. Please respect the structural integrity of the building by avoiding unnecessary contact with the walls and displays.