旧澤原家住宅

The Kyu-Sawahara House is a traditional residential building in Hiroshima Prefecture with classic Japanese features such as wooden beams, tatami mat floors, and sliding paper doors. The structure demonstrates construction techniques from an earlier period and provides insight into the household arrangements of a merchant family.

Built during the Edo period, this residence served as the main dwelling for the Sawahara family across generations. The family was involved in local commerce and left their mark on the regional development of the area.

The house displays the typical layout of a traditional Japanese home with distinct areas for daily activities, ceremonial occasions, and receiving visitors. This spatial arrangement reflects the social customs that governed household life.

When visiting, wear comfortable shoes since you will need to remove them in several areas to walk on tatami mats. It is wise to plan your visit on a quiet weekday to explore the rooms at your own pace.

The house is renowned for its original wooden pillars constructed using traditional Japanese carpentry techniques without using a single nail. This building method demonstrates the craftsmanship of an earlier time and remains an impressive example of durable construction.