Ishitani Residence — Attraction in Chizu

I visited this residence on a day trip from Fukuyama. When selecting where to go I came across Chizu with this residence. What a monument! I was so impressed by the wood everywhere, especially by the wooden beams. And so many rooms with their own charm. The garden is a bit small, and couldn’t be accessed, but looked beautiful too. Despite the rain that day, it was really worth the trip. There were hardly any other people. Note that you need train reservations for the quicker trains. And at the stations of Fukuyama and Okayama these could not be given. So I jumped on the (almost empty) train, and was allowed to remain onboard to Chizu. For my trip back I did it when I arrived at the station, and that was the best moment, as it took more than 15 minutes, and two employees helped me. I was given a handwritten seat...

It was interesting to learn how much the Ishitani Residence played a big part of the area's past. The home is beautiful and full of surprises, such as the Shinden-shitsu, which is a unique room that houses a shrine indoors, and unique detailing, such as the carved dragons and phoenixes on the wooden panels, not to mention the exquisite pieces of art and collection of ceramics. We also happened to visit when the garden was open to the public and caught the most dramatic fall foliage reflecting off the giant koi pond in the late afternoon sun. A memorable day and a must see for history...

What I heard was that the Ishitani family was the richest family around town who built this residence and flourished the whole Chizu region as one of the largest Shubuka.

The place itself is pretty impressive, considering how long it has been around and how proper it has been kempt.

As you walk inside, you can hear the floorboards creaking. You will also realise the interior is colder than the exterior, which was puzzling.

If you enjoy museum visits, you'd...