Omi Merchant Museum
museum
Omi Merchant Museum
近江商人博物館
Overview
A preserved merchant quarter museum telling the story of Japan's legendary Omi traders and their 'three-way' philosophy.
The Gokasho district in Higashiomi preserves the mansions of Omi merchants. Japan's most successful pre-modern trading class, alongside Osaka and Ise merchants. The museum explains their famous 'sanpo-yoshi' (three-way satisfaction: good for the seller, good for the buyer, good for society) business philosophy. Several beautifully maintained merchant homes are open for tours through tatami rooms, gardens, and storehouses.
Local tips
Visit the Gokasho district during the Gokasho Merchant Town Festival (September) when normally closed merchant mansions open their doors to the public.
Practical info
- Japanese name
- 近江商人博物館
- Nearest station
- Gokasho Station (Ohmi Railway)
- Payment
- Cash only
Accessibility
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