What other travelers are saying about Sakaiya (Former residence of Kinoshita Family), Yame
Very interesting visit to this beautifully restored home of a Sake merchant. Free to enter and walk around - garden and even in the home. The caretaker saw us and gave us explanations of the house and grounds - was so interesting. She was wonderful- so enthusiastic and passionate about the property! We highly recommend visiting! Thank you Yame - we loved our stay!
Sakaiya (Former Kinoshita Residence)
There was a sign saying "Feel free to enter," so I decided to check it out. The garden and the building are beautiful, and there's a water harp called a suikinkutsu, which produces a sound so mesmerizing you have to strain your ears to hear it. Listening to the sound, it's so beautiful it makes you forget about your everyday life.
I happened to see it while I was strolling around, so I stopped in.
It's a magnificent building, so it's hard to believe admission is free.
They also provide guidance, so if you happen to drop by, it might be worth asking them.
The parking lot is right next to the building and is quite spacious, so you shouldn't have any problems finding a spot.
Sakaiya is a preserved Edo Period residence and former sake brewery that belonged to the Kinoshita Family in Yame, Fukuoka. It represents one of the most important examples of traditional Japanese merchant family architecture in the region. The building showcases the lifestyle and prosperity of sake brewing families during Japan's feudal era and was donated to the city in the 1970s to preserve this cultural heritage for future generations.
No, admission to Sakaiya is completely free. Visitors can explore the traditional residence, view the raked garden, and learn about the Kinoshita Family's history without any charge, making it an accessible cultural attraction for all visitors.
Sakaiya is located in the Yame Fukushima district, approximately 30 minutes by car from central Fukuoka. By public transportation, take the JR Kyushu Kagoshima Main Line to Yame Station, then use local transportation to reach the Fukushima historic district. The residence is situated on one of Yame's oldest streets and is within walking distance of other traditional shops and cultural sites.
Visitors can explore the traditional rooms and corridors of this wood and white plaster construction building, admire the meticulously maintained raked garden, and learn about traditional Japanese residential architecture. The interior preserves the original layout that reflects the daily life and social status of the Kinoshita Family. The surrounding historic district also features traditional tea merchants and local craftsmen shops, creating a complete cultural experience.
Sakaiya offers a unique glimpse into the life of a wealthy sake brewing family during the Edo Period, which is distinct from samurai residences or temples commonly found elsewhere. Its location in the Yame Fukushima historic district provides an authentic atmosphere where the entire street maintains its traditional character. The combination of the preserved residence, traditional garden, and the surrounding historic merchant district creates an immersive experience of Japan's feudal-era commercial culture.
