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Kanazawa Shinise Memorial Hall: A Glimpse into Merchant Life

Step back in time at the Kanazawa Shinise Memorial Hall, exploring the preserved home of a traditional merchant family.

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The Kanazawa Shinise Memorial Hall, formerly the Nakaya Pharmacy, offers a fascinating look into the lives of Kanazawa's merchant class during the Edo period. Located in the Nagamachi district, this preserved building showcases traditional crafts, a replicated pharmacy, and a glimpse into the past.

A brief summary to Kanazawa Shinise Memorial Hall

Local tips

  • Combine your visit with a stroll through the Nagamachi Samurai District for a deeper dive into Kanazawa's history.
  • Purchase a combination ticket to also visit the nearby Maeda Tosanokamike Shiryokan Museum for a broader historical perspective.
  • Don't miss the candy tree on the second floor, a unique and intricate display made entirely of sugar.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Kanazawa Shinise Memorial Hall is located in the Nagamachi district. From the Nomura-ke Samurai Residence, walk south along the main street of Nagamachi. The Hall will be on your left after a short walk. No costs are associated with this final approach.

  • Public Transport

    From Kanazawa Station, take the Kanazawa Loop Bus from the East Exit to the Korinbo bus stop. The fare is ¥200. From Korinbo, walk approximately 5 minutes to the memorial hall.

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Discover more about Kanazawa Shinise Memorial Hall

The Kanazawa Shinise Memorial Hall, also known as the Shinise Kinenkan, provides a captivating glimpse into the culture of Kanazawa's merchants. Housed in a preserved traditional wooden townhouse, the building was once home to Nakaya Pharmacy, a family-run business established in 1579. In 1987, the Nakaya family donated the building to the city of Kanazawa, with the intention of preserving it as a museum. 'Shinise' means 'old shop' in Japanese, reflecting the building's design, which incorporates both a storefront and living quarters. The museum showcases the daily life of merchants, displaying tools, handicrafts, and artifacts. On the first floor, you'll find the 'Mise-no-ma' (storefront) exhibit, recreating the atmosphere of a traditional pharmacy. Upstairs, exhibits feature local crafts like Noh theater masks, Japanese umbrellas, and a unique candy tree made entirely of sugar. The Nakaya family held a respected position in Kanazawa, even granted the right to sell Chinese medicine by the Maeda family. The building itself was erected in 1878 and renovated in 1919, showcasing a blend of architectural styles. The museum provides explanations in both Japanese and English, making it accessible to a wide range of visitors.

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