Kyū-Nameteshaku Honjin (Former Namete Post Station)

Overview

Kyū-Nameteshaku Honjin is a historical building in Kino-kawa City, Wakayama Prefecture, and is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. The main house, rice storehouse, and south storehouse, along with the entire site, are designated as national historical sites. Located in Namete-juku, a post town that thrived during the early Edo period along the Yamato Kaido (road), it served as a honjin (official inn) for daimyo traveling on sankin-kotai (alternate attendance system) and other high-ranking individuals. The main house, built in 1718 (Kyōhō 3), showcases the architectural and lifestyle characteristics of the time. Highlights include the entrance, raised platform, shop area, reception room, kitchen, and the upper-class section (upper room and next room). The rice storehouse and south storehouse, with building documents from the Kan'ei era, may have survived a fire. Kyū-Nameteshaku Honjin is also known as the family home of Kae, the wife of Kagawa Genzo, and offers a glimpse into the life of this historical figure. The area also features the Seirin-ken (Kagawa's birthplace) and the Kagawa Genzo Memorial Park, allowing you to learn more about his life and achievements. Kyū-Nameteshaku Honjin is a precious sightseeing spot that allows visitors to experience history and culture. Learn about Edo-period post towns and the life of Kagawa Genzo. History buffs won't want to miss this!