Former Honma Family Residence

Honma-ke Kyu-hontei

Feel the spirit of simplicity and fortitude at the residence of Japan’s richest merchant!

The Honma family was the wealthiest merchant family in Japan between the 17th and mid-20th centuries. Their immense wealth was larger than that of feudal lords and was the envy of people all over Japan. The Honma Residence originally served as regional quarters for visiting shogunate officials. The buildings are a unique fusion of the architectural styles of traditional samurai residences and merchant houses.


The old pine tree covering the roof of the front entrance reflects the spirit of the Honma family: “taking a low profile and being modest”. This spirit based on simplicity and fortitude can be seen through their dedication to the local area where they funded the planting of a barrier of trees to protect the locals’ fields and constructed residences and gardens to give farmers shelter and work even during times of poor harvests.


From late February to early April each year, the Sakata Hinakaido Festival takes place in the area. A collection of “Hina dolls” (dolls for the Girl’s Festival) are displayed at local venues including the Honma Residence and the Honma Museum. Most of the Hina dolls are private personal belongings and the festival offers a rare chance to see these precious traditional dolls. Don’t miss it!

General Information

Address
山形県酒田市二番町12-13
Prices
Admission
Adults: 900 yen
Junior and Senior high school students: 300 yen
Elementary Students: 200 yen
*Combined tickets with Honma Museum are available (1,400 yen).
Opening Times
Open: 9:30 - 16:30 (16:00 from November to February)
Closures
Closed from mid-December to late January
*Note that it may be closed on other days when changing exhibitions.
Directions
6 minutes by car from JR Sakata Station
15 minutes by car from Sakata IC on Nihonkai-Tohoku Expressway
Car Park
Ordinary vehicle parking: 20 spaces available
Large vehicle parking: 2 spaces available
Official Website
http://hommake.sakura.ne.jp/
Word-of-mouth
Reviews (TripAdvisor)

Contact

Contact
Former Honma Family Residence Office
Telephone Number
0234-23-5422

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