Rooms
&
Facilities

Situated in the historically rich Gokasho Kondo area, NIPPONIA Gokasho epitomizes the lasting influence of the Omi merchants, who flourished during Japan’s Edo period. Originally the home of the Tonomura Uhee family, who grew to national prominence as merchants, this gracefully restored lodging embodies the profound heritage of Japan’s esteemed traders.

NIPPONIA Gokasho not only stands as a historical landmark but also as a living testament to the Omi merchants’ philosophy of ‘coexistence and mutual prosperity’ with the community. This ethos, central to the Omi merchants, reflects in the property’s design and operation while encapsulating the spirit and lifestyle of these pioneering merchants. Their practices have become foundational in the modern context of sustainable living.

Built in 1860, the main building of NIPPONIA features a modest exterior that belies a spacious and welcoming interior. This structure is a showcase of masterful craftsmanship, with meticulous attention to detail enhancing both the building’s charm and its historical significance.

Sleeps:
up to 10 guests
Area:
1st Floor 337 ㎡, 2nd Floor 134 ㎡
Restrooms:
3 rooms
Bathrooms:
2 (incl. 2 showers in the large bath, 1 shower in the smaller bath)
Kitchen:
A traditional earthen-floor Japanese kitchen, equipped with full culinary facilities.
Amenities:
Body soap, shampoo and conditioner, face wash and cleansing, moisturizing gel, razors, toothbrushes and paste, combs, bath and face towels, hair dryer, yukata robes
Facilities and Equipment:
Wi-Fi, humidifier and air purifier, hot water pot, refrigerator, screen, projector, printer, conference room tables (8 units)

Important Note:

Our facility, set in a beautifully renovated historic building, offers a unique blend of history and modern comfort. We’ve worked to preserve much of the building’s original character, including some of the natural signs of aging such as the occasional audible draft or floor creaks. It’s also important to note that the restrooms are only located on the ground floor, whle the main bedrooms are on the second floor. We hope you’ll appreciate the authenticity and historical charm of these elements, and we look forward to providing a memorable stay that respects the building’s rich heritage.

1F

2F

Bedrooms

The second floor features two private rooms, each furnished with two single beds for our guests to sleep in comfort. On the first floor, the traditional tatami space is furnished with futon floor mattresses, allowing the accommodation to comfortably host up to 10 guests in total. For added comfort, guests are treated to premium bedding from Nishikawa, a distinguished bedding company that was also an Omi merchant with a 450 year legacy.

Bathroom

The facility includes two bathtubs, differing in size, and both housed in a newly constructed building connected to the main structure. The larger spacious bath is able to accommodate several guests at once, making it ideal for group use. In contrast, the smaller bathtub offers a more intimate and peaceful setting, suitable for 1 to 2 guests. Both bathrooms have been crafted from Hinoki cypress wood, creating a relaxing environment accented by the refreshing natural wood fragrance.

Kitchen

A traditional earthen-floor kitchen equipped with professional-grade culinary facilities. Guests have the option to request in-house catering services from local chefs.

Kura Meeting Room

A traditional kura warehouse with excellent soundproofing, available for use as a meeting room or theater space. Please note that while a projector and screen are provided, guests are requested to supply their own computer or media device.

Garden

The garden at this residence, once deemed the finest of the area, exemplifies pure beauty for viewing pleasure from within the residence as well as outside. It is a testament to the distinct garden design practiced by Omi merchants. Harmoniously integrated into the local landscape, the garden reflects the Omi merchants’ ethos of blending gracefully with their surroundings. Its meticulously placed tall red pines, and carefully arranged stones showcase unique and expert techniques. Guests can enjoy walking through the garden or unwinding in the tatami rooms which offers amazing views of the garden as well, a perfect time to reflect on the lifestyle of the Omi merchants.

Kawato

In this area, a traditional washing space known as a kawato is a common feature, where residents traditionally channel water from the street’s waterways into a basin within a small hut on their property. One such Kawato can be observed within the grounds of this facility. This practice reflects a time-honored way of life, cleverly making use of the abundant water resources. The water here is pristine spring water, originating from the subterranean currents of the Echi River. Locals contine to make use of this water in the traditional manner even today, particularly for washing vegetables.