Experience the serene beauty of a traditional Japanese summer at two historic samurai residences in Fukui Prefecture: the Former Tamura Residence in Echizen City and the Former Uchiyama Residence in Sabae City. These heritage sites are now home to special summer photo installations that highlight the charm of old Japan.

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Seasonal Photo Highlights

・Pinwheel Shelf at Former Tamura Residence (風車棚｜Tamura-ke)

From April 19 to November 24, 2025, visitors can enjoy a unique pinwheel shelf installation in the garden of the Former Tamura Residence. Colorful pinwheels spin gently in the breeze, bringing life and motion to this beautifully preserved Edo-period house. It’s a favorite photo spot, especially in early summer and autumn when the seasonal scenery adds to the atmosphere.

・Summer Shoji Screens at Former Uchiyama Residence (夏障子｜Uchiyama-ke)

Running from April 28 to September 28, 2025, the Former Uchiyama Residence features “natsu shoji”—traditional sliding paper doors made with light, breathable washi paper perfect for summer. The soft light filtering through the screens creates a tranquil setting, offering a glimpse into how samurai families lived comfortably during the hotter months.

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📅 Installation Periods

• Former Tamura Residence (Echizen City): April 19 (Sat) – November 24 (Mon, public holiday), 2025
• Former Uchiyama Residence (Sabae City): April 28 (Mon) – September 28 (Sun), 2025
  Dates subject to change based on local conditions.

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Access

Former Tamura Residence (旧田村家住宅)

• Location: Echizen City, Fukui Prefecture
• Access:
  • About 10 minutes by taxi from JR Takefu Station, or 20 minutes by local bus.
  • Near the Echizen Washi Village, famous for traditional Japanese paper.

Former Uchiyama Residence (旧内山家住宅)

• Location: Sabae City, Fukui Prefecture
• Access:
  • Around 15 minutes on foot or 5 minutes by taxi from JR Sabae Station.
  • Close to the Megane Museum, dedicated to Sabae’s world-renowned eyeglass industry.

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Why You Should Visit

• Experience authentic Edo-period architecture
• Discover seasonal aesthetics in historical settings
• Great for photography, cultural exploration, and peaceful sightseeing

These two samurai houses offer more than just history—they offer a sensory journey through a timeless Japanese summer. Bring your camera and capture the elegance of tradition!

Maruoka Castle, the only existing castle tower in Hokuriku