The Former Fukuda House is one of Saga City's historical and folk museums, and the former residence of Keishiro Fukuda, a leading businessman in Saga from the late Meiji to early Showa periods. Designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan, it's a precious building that showcases the beautiful design of modern Japanese architecture.
Built in 1918 (Taisho 7), the Former Fukuda House consists of a main house, a storehouse, and a detached building. The main house is a hipped and gabled, horizontally-placed structure. The front 3.5 bays are covered with thatched roofing and a wide eave, while the back 3.5 bays are covered with slate tiles. The meticulous craftsmanship is evident in every detail, creating a serene atmosphere with elegant features.
The Western-style parlor with its stained-glass windows is particularly noteworthy. The fusion of Western and Japanese styles harmonizes beautifully, offering a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of the time. The large and small gardens, visible from various rooms, provide a tranquil setting to enjoy the changing seasons.
At the Former Fukuda House, you can experience Saga-nishiki weaving and explore the traditional building. Saga-nishiki is a textile made with warp threads of finely cut gold, silver, and lacquer-coated paper and weft threads of dyed silk. The intricate process means that only a few centimeters can be woven in a day, making it a truly precious craft.
A visit to the Former Fukuda House offers a glimpse into Saga's history, culture, and the splendor of its traditional crafts. Come and experience its charm firsthand.
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