Former Kaneko Family Residence

Overview

The Former Kaneko Family Residence is a traditional Machiya-style house from the late Edo period, located in the Ōmachi area of Akita City. It was once a wholesale business of Japanese clothing and textiles, and it preserves the lifestyle and architectural techniques of that time. The building consists of the main house and a storehouse, showcasing ingenious adaptations to the snowy climate. The earth-floor space (doma), equipped with a fireplace and irori (sunken hearth), served as the central living space, providing protection against the winter cold. The storehouse, built in the late Edo period, features thick walls and heavy doors as fire prevention measures. Furthermore, the water jars placed on the roof collected rainwater, also serving as a fire prevention measure. Designated as a tangible cultural property of Akita City, the Former Kaneko Family Residence is a precious site steeped in history and culture. Visitors can learn about the lifestyle and architectural techniques of the time, and imagine the life of a merchant family in the past. Combined tickets are available for entry to the adjacent Akita City Folk Performing Arts Preservation Hall (commonly known as Nebutsuri Nagashikan), where you can learn about Akita City's folk performing arts and traditional culture. Visiting both the Former Kaneko Family Residence and the Nebutsuri Nagashikan provides a deeper understanding of Akita's culture.