This is the home of “scattered samurai” (samurai who lived in rural villages rather than in castle towns) who served Takashima lords for generations. It was originally built in the mid-18th century and later remodeled in the mid-19th century. The floor plan includes a spacious dirt floor room and a layout similar to that of a farmhouse, but it also has characteristics of a samurai residence, such as traditional tatami room. From the Meiji period onwards, three government ministers were from the Watanabe family. Valuable materials from this family are also displayed at the Okaya Kyodo Gakushukan, a local learning center.
▶Former Watanabe Family Residence, Nagano Prefectural Treasure website
♦Reception
Please first go to the reception at the Kyodo Gakushukan.
♦Address
Former Watanabe Family Residence, 3-8-40 Osachishibamiya, Okaya City, Nagano, Japan, 394-0011