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National Important Cultural Property, Murakami Residence

Ponder the wisdom in the A-frame building, the lifestyle there and the folk culture.

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At the southwestern edge of Toyama Prefecture, 40 small villages, called Gokayama, dot five valleys. Surrounded by steep mountains, they have over 2m of snow in winter. Their architecture was chosen to withstand heavy snow. There are many homes with the thatched gable roof in steep angles that remain to this day.

Murakami Family’s residence, one of the oldest A-frame homes in Gokayama, was built about 350 years ago. It is designated as a national important cultural property, preserving the ancient architecture style. You can tour outside and inside the unique building. The owner of the residence invites you to sit around the open hearth like in ancient times and she shares stories about life in Gokayama and folk culture.

With a reservation, you can watch the traditional Kokiriko dance. Kokiriko are small pieces of thin bamboo, which beats along with piccolos and drums while they sing. it is said to be the oldest folk song in Japan related to a rice-planting festivity. The graceful dance in traditional clothes will take you back to the 9th-to-17th century era.

Highlights

  • You can tour inside a rare A-frame architecture from 350 years ago.
  • A reservation allows you to watch the ancient Kokiriko folk dance.
  • A fireside to share Gokayama’s life and culture.

Photos

  • Traditional One-layer and 4-floor architecture 
*Photo provider: Nanto City

    Traditional One-layer and 4-floor architecture *Photo provider: Nanto City

  • Beating Sasara bamboo, a dancer sings around

    Beating Sasara bamboo, a dancer sings around

  • Intriguing stories to be heard around an open hearth

    Intriguing stories to be heard around an open hearth

  • Wisdom to be seen in the attic of A-frame architecture

    Wisdom to be seen in the attic of A-frame architecture

  • Firewood piled up for the coming winter

    Firewood piled up for the coming winter

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Details

Name in Japanese
国定指定重要文化財 村上家
Postal Code
939-1914
Address
742 Kaminashi, Nanto City, Toyama
Telephone
0763-66-2711
Closed
Tuesdays & Wednesdays, December 15 - End of February
Hours
9:00am-4:00pm (Admission allowed until 3:40pm) *Varies by season
Admission
High schooler and older 300 yen, Middle and elementary schooler 150 yen
Directions
From JR Shin-Takaoka Station or Johana Station, ride the World Heritage Bus to Kaminashi stop, and walk a short distance.
Credit Cards
Not accepted
Official Website
Official Website (Japanese)