Built in 1863 and used as a retreat by the 11th generation Shonai Clan Daimyo Tada’aki Sakai, the Edo-period building was dismantled and parts of it relocated to within the third wall of Tsuruoka Castle where it currently stands. (Not yet certified) 997-0036 Yamagata-ken, Tsuruoka-shi, Kachushin-machi 10-18 (In the Chido Museum grounds)
The Former Nishitagawa-gun Government Office was built in 1881 under orders by Mishima Michitusne, the first Kenrei (prefectural governor) of Yamagata Prefecture. The master carpenters were Ishi Takejiro, and Takahashi Kanekichi from Tsuruoka who had studied western architecture. Kanekichi was a prominent carpenter in the Shonai region, having worked on multiple Giyofu buildings (western-style designs that use traditional Japanese techniques for the basic structure) besides the Former Nishitagawa-gun Government Office. The balcony that sticks out from above the entrance and the 20m-high penthouse and clock are typical of the Giyofu style, and the pillars for the porch and suspended staircase are reminiscent of renaissance architecture. The building was used for… Read more »
This is a multi-storied folk house that was moved from Tamugimata, Tsuruoka, in 1969. Built in 1822, the upper floors offer a glimpse into the silkworm breeding in the region. Tamugimata was once covered in these multi-storied folk houses, but many went well past their normal lifespan and disappeared rapidly along with changing lifestyles. This one was preserved and moved to its current location. (Nationally-designated Important Tangible Cultural Property) 997-0036 Yamagata-ken, Tsuruoka-shi, Kachushin-machi 10-18 (In the Chido Museum grounds)
