Former Matsuzaka Family Residence, Takehara

The Former Matsuzaka Family Residence stands as one of the grand merchant houses in Takehara, a historic town in Hiroshima Prefecture that prospered as one of Japan's largest salt-producing areas during the Edo period. Built in the early 19th century and refurbished in 1879, this residence represents the wealth accumulated by the Matsuzaka family through their diverse business enterprises. The family built their fortune through coal and firewood sales, salt production, and sake brewing, typical of the merchant princes who dominated Takehara's economy during its peak in the 18th century.

The residence showcases the distinctive Teri-muku style roof and elaborate lattice-work on its facade, which were the primary methods merchants could employ to display their prosperity during the Edo era while adhering to samurai-class sumptuary laws. The latticework featuring an inome pattern has been called the "heart of happiness" and has become a notable feature of the building. While not superficially ostentatious, the mansion clearly demonstrates thousands of hours of work by master craftsmen, reflecting the wealth generated from the salt trade.

The residence provides visitors with an authentic glimpse into the lifestyle of wealthy 19th-century merchant families in Japan. The property includes traditional Japanese gardens and architectural features characteristic of upper-class residences from this period. The building has been preserved as part of Takehara's Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings, where the historic architecture from the Edo period to the early Showa period stands remarkably intact along stone-paved streets.

The Former Matsuzaka Family Residence is open to the public Tuesday through Sunday from 9:00 to 17:00 (last entrance at 16:30), except on holidays. Admission costs ¥200. A combined ticket providing entry to the Matsuzaka, Mitsumoto, and Morikawa residences as well as the history museum is available for ¥600. The residence is located on Honmachi-dori, the main street of the historic district. Takehara is accessible by a 15-minute walk from Takehara Station on the JR Kure Line, about 20 minutes by car from the Sanyo Expressway Kochi IC, or approximately 25 minutes by car from Hiroshima Airport.