旧遠山家住宅 Travel Guide

The Old Toyama House (旧遠山家住宅) stands as a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of the people of Shirakawa-go. Built around 1827 by craftsmen from Noto, the house showcases the distinctive Gassho-style architecture, characterized by its steeply pitched, thatched roof resembling hands clasped in prayer. The Toyama family, who resided here, played a significant role in the village's history, particularly in the production of saltpeter (a key ingredient in gunpowder) and sericulture (silk farming).The four-story structure was ingeniously designed to accommodate both living quarters and workspaces. The first floor served as the family's living space, while the upper floors were dedicated to silkworm cultivation. Interestingly, the basement was used for saltpeter production until around 1887. The Toyama family was also known for its large size; during the Meiji era, as many as 40 family members lived in the house. Today, visitors can explore the house and learn about the Toyama family, Gassho-style architecture, and traditional village life.The Old Toyama House is designated as an Important Cultural Property, and it provides valuable insights into the history, architecture, and culture of the Shirakawa-go region.