Oguri House, Merchant residence in Handa, Japan
The Oguri House is a two-story wooden structure in Handa with a distinctive roof and a combined layout of shop and living space. The shop occupies the front area while residential quarters extend toward the back, connected by an earth-floored passageway.
The house was built in 1870 and belonged to a merchant family that started with sake production. The family later expanded their business into fertilizer trading and maritime shipping.
The residence displays traditional Japanese design details such as tatami mat rooms, wooden sliding doors, and thick supporting beams. These elements shape how the rooms look and reflect the craftsmanship that went into building the structure.
The house is located near Handa Station and can be easily reached from the main street. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes since footwear must be removed to enter the tatami mat areas.
The garden holds a white climbing rose tree about 150 years old, recognized as one of the oldest and largest of its kind in Japan. This plant stands out as a visual highlight, especially when in full bloom.
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