Masuda Uchigura Storehouses

増田の内蔵

4.4Est. 150¥Yokote, Tohoku

Local Pick

Overview

A hidden street of merchant houses concealing ornate storehouses inside. Akita's answer to ice-cream architecture with lacquered beams and painted ceilings.

In Masuda, a former trading hub in southern Akita, wealthy merchants built elaborate storehouses inside their homes to protect goods from heavy snowfall. Over 40 of these uchigura (inner storehouses) survive, connected to the main house under one continuous roof. Inside, the storehouses are lavishly decorated with lacquered pillars, painted sliding doors, and ornamental metalwork, a stark contrast to their modest street facades. The district was designated a National Important Preservation District in 2013.

Local tips

The Sato Yosuke Storehouse and the Yamayo Storehouse have the most elaborate interiors. Buy the combination ticket and look up at the ceiling beams in the Yamayo for the finest lacquerwork.

Practical info

Japanese name: 増田の内蔵
Nearest station: Jumonji Station (JR Ou Line, bus transfer)
Payment: Cash only

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