Honma Residence

Honma Residence (本間家旧本邸, Honma-ke Kyūhontei) is a historic Edo-period home connected to the powerful Honma merchant family, who influenced trade and public projects in the region. Built in 1768, the house originally hosted officials from the shogunate before becoming the Honma family’s main residence. Visitors can explore a series of tatami rooms separated by elegant sliding doors, and notice the mix of merchant and samurai design elements. The impressive front gate signals high status, while the traditional kitchen—with stone counters and an earthen floor—offers a glimpse into daily life in past centuries.

The residence was lived in until the mid-1900s and later opened as a public historic site. Visitors may join guided tours in Japanese or simply walk through the rooms at their own pace. Across the street, the former Honma storehouse continues to operate as a shop and also displays small exhibits about the family’s activities and community contributions, including early firefighting efforts.