Chiba Residence

The Chiba Residence (南部曲り家千葉家, Nambu Magariya Chiba-ke) is a beautifully preserved 200-year-old farmhouse located on a gentle hillside, offering serene views across the broad Tono valley. It stands as one of the finest surviving examples of Nambu Magariya architecture—a distinctive L-shaped design that housed both people and horses under one roof. This impressive structure once belonged to the influential Chiba family, a prosperous and respected household in the region’s agricultural history.

The property includes the main house, traditional stables, and several storehouses, which together supported the daily life of around 25 people and 20 horses. The residence provides a vivid glimpse into the social structure and lifestyle of wealthy rural families during the Edo period. Visitors can explore rooms filled with historic tools, furnishings, and architectural details that reflect the ingenuity and resilience of Tono’s farming culture. Surrounded by nature and steeped in history, the Chiba Residence offers a tranquil yet immersive experience for anyone interested in traditional Japanese life.