Former Shimo-Yoichi Unjo-ya

Overview

The Former Shimo-Yoichi Unjo-ya is the remains of an Unjo-ya (trading post) established during the Matsumae clan's rule over Ezochi (Hokkaido). Yoichi town was once divided into "Kami-Yoichi" and "Shimo-Yoichi," with the Former Shimo-Yoichi Unjo-ya located in the Shimo-Yoichi district. The Unjo-ya were established by merchants known as "basho-ukeoi-nin" and served as key locations for trade between the Japanese and the Ainu people. The Former Shimo-Yoichi Unjo-ya symbolizes the Matsumae clan's rule over Ezochi and is a precious historical site where you can learn about the trade of the time and Ainu culture. The building is a kirizuma-zukuri (gable roof) style with a width of approximately 40 meters (20 ken) and a depth of approximately 16 meters (9 ken), showcasing its scale at the time. Including its annex buildings, the floor space is approximately 540 square meters, with a heavy-tiled roof. The windows are lattice windows, some with paper shoji screens. Inside, there are upper guest rooms, rooms for guards on duty, plank-floored rooms for servants, upper and lower kitchens, and more, reflecting the social hierarchy of the time. The Former Shimo-Yoichi Unjo-ya was designated an Important Cultural Property in 1971 and a National Historic Site in 1973. It is currently owned by Yoichi town and is open to the public for free. Opening hours are from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM, and it is closed on Mondays. The Former Shimo-Yoichi Unjo-ya is a valuable historical site where you can learn about Hokkaido's history. By learning about the trade of the time and Ainu culture, you can deepen your understanding of Hokkaido's history. The building itself is also a valuable document that conveys the architectural style of the time. Be sure to visit!