Former Konishi Residence Historical Museum

Overview

The Former Konishi Residence Historical Museum is a traditional Japanese-style merchant's house built in the 1900s, the former residence of the founder of Konishi Holdings Co., Ltd. A large part of it is designated as an Important Cultural Property and opened to the public in 2020 to commemorate the company's 150th anniversary. The building is structured as a "omoteya-zukuri" style, with the shop front facing the main street connected to the residential section in the rear via a courtyard. Originally, a part of the main building was three stories high, but the third floor was removed after the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923 as a seismic precaution, resulting in the current appearance. A video corner showcases the company's history and footage of Osaka circa the era of the city trams. Visitors can also explore the study, Buddhist altar room, mossy courtyard, and a kitchen with a high ceiling. While the second floor is not usually open to the public, it reportedly housed numerous small rooms in addition to the wife's quarters and children's rooms, where nearly 50 family members, employees, and maids lived and slept. Visits are by reservation only, accepted only on Tuesdays and Fridays. Admission is free. If you're interested in experiencing Osaka's history, it's a must-see. Note: As of April 2023, the second floor is now open to visitors.