[03] NIPPONIA Gokasho Omi Merchants’ Town (Higashiomi City) / Stay and Discover Shiga’s Historical R

Stay and Discover Shiga’s Historical Roots

The Cultural Heritage of Omi Merchants in Gokasho

NIPPONIA Gokasho Omi Merchants’ Town (Higashiomi City)

Keywords: history & culture / local food
Season: All year:

English Assistance: minimum or partial

Shiga has long been a thriving agricultural and trade center, thanks to its proximity to the ancient capitals of Kyoto and Nara, and the abundant natural resources of Lake Biwa, Japan’s largest lake. Centrally located, Shiga became a vital transportation hub with ancient roads and lake routes crisscrossing the region. The historic Nakasendo and Tokaido trails, connecting Edo (Tokyo) and Kyoto, passed through Shiga, boosting its economic role.

At the heart of this prosperity were the Omi Merchants, named after Shiga’s historical name, Omi. These merchants began thriving particularly during the Edo era (17th-19thC.), and well into the modern era. They expanded their businesses across Japan and laid the foundation for many of Japan’s leading companies. Guided by the philosophy of “Sanpo Yoshi” (good for the seller, buyer, and society), they left a lasting impact on Japan’s economy and culture.

Omi merchants in their historic attire (photo: Hino Tourist Assoc.)

On this page, we’re introducing the unique experience of staying at a renovated Omi Merchant’s residence in Gokasho, one of Shiga’s historic merchant towns. In this quiet village, surrounded by rural farmlands, you can enjoy a charming inn that offers an immersive experience steeped in tradition.

East of Lake Biwa, and south of Hikone Castle, lies a tranquil rural area in Higashiomi City, a significant agriculture hub as home to the largest farmland area in the Kansai region. About 10 kilometers inland from the shores of Lake Biwa, you’ll discover the peaceful village of Gokasho Kondo, where time seems to be standing still in the Edo period. This district, recognized as a National Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings, is a treasure trove of history.

Majestic merchant houses embodying principles of simplicity and durability still stand here, offering a glimpse into the lives and values of the Omi Merchants. Among these historic buildings is the former residence of Uhei Tonomura, a merchant who flourished trading textiles and kimono. Built about 160 years ago, this residence was meticulously renovated, blending historical charm with modern comforts, and is now serving as a lodging facility called NIPPONIA Gokasho Omi Merchants’ Town.

The Omi Merchants’ philosophy of simplicity and resilience is reflected throughout this vacation rental facility. From the architecture to the meticulously designed Japanese garden, every aspect invites a serene and thoughtful experience. This attention to detail allows you to fully immerse yourself in the history and charm of the area.

As night falls, the tranquil village streets are accented by the softly beating drum of the night patrol, a bygone tradition that locals here have kept alive. Guests can also participate in activities like mochi pounding, or traditional hand-held fireworks in summer. These optional activities provide a unique experience and a way to contribute to the preservation of this special place.

Culinary delights made with local ingredients are another highlight of your stay. An optional special Omi Merchant-themed breakfast is prepared by local residents, with fresh, regional ingredients. For dinner, the inn collaborates with nearby restaurants to showcase fine locally-sourced produce from surrounding farms. Special menus, including traditional kaiseki meals and yakiniku (Japanese BBQ), are available exclusively for guests and can be reserved through the accommodation.

Beyond your stay at NIPPONIA Gokasho, the entire community is worth exploring. Take time to see other well-preserved merchant houses nearby, some of which are open to the public to discover more about the rich heritage of the Omi Merchants. For those ready to venture further, local sake breweries welcome visitors, providing a chance to explore the region’s rich brewing tradition, which has long thrived thanks to renowned local rice and abundant water resources. To enjoy the village and surrounding hidden gems at your own pace, consider renting a bicycle from the local tourism office.

The Omi Merchants were traders who expanded their businesses beyond the local area, as opposed to shopkeepers who remained within the region. Gokasho, one of the main Omi merchant towns, was originally a farming village. In the late Edo period, with support from the daimyo lord of Hikone Castle, local merchants began traveling as itinerant traders during the winter months. Quality hemp textiles from local traditional hemp crops became their primary trade goods.

Their way of life was marked by simplicity, frugality, practicality, and resilience. They knew when to save and when to invest wisely. This is evident in the concept of “Living Money,” where merchants used savings to fund public works in disaster-stricken areas, such as repairing bridges and roads in their hometowns or business regions. These projects not only created lasting infrastructure but also provided work for local people, delivering long-term benefits beyond just temporary aid.

This practical, community-focused approach is deeply connected to the philosophy of Sanpo Yoshi. Although the term was coined later, it encapsulates the shared values passed down through various Omi Merchant families. It emphasizes shared benefit for the seller, the buyer, and society, a principle that shaped their business practices.

The success of Omi Merchants in establishing business bases across Japan was due not only to sharp business acumen, but also their commitment to Sanpo Yoshi, which earned them the trust of local communities. By contributing to local development, they gained respect and confidence, which was key to their long-term success—an approach that offers valuable lessons for businesses today.

The legacy of the Omi Merchants lives on, thanks to the community’s own initiative to preserve the district, leading to the area’s recognition as a historical preservation district. This is how NIPPONIA Gokasho came to be. After long planning and discussions with the local community, the facility opened in September 2022 as part of an effort to ensure the region remains sustainable. It aims to serve as a center embodying the spirit of Sanpo Yoshi, through collaboration with local community groups.

So far, they have welcomed guests who enjoy the historic atmosphere, while companies use the facility for training programs where attendees come not just to stay, but to learn about the Omi Merchants’ spirit and business philosophy.

The historic building has also attracted international guests seeking an authentic experience. For example, a group from France particularly enjoyed participating in the night patrol and enjoying fireworks with local residents, praising the community’s warm welcome.

The team hopes guests will enjoy the historic architecture, beautiful water channels, and quiet streetscapes, while also experiencing the way of life preserved by the residents. Looking ahead, the goal is to preserve these precious townscapes and attract potential future residents and contributors. The focus is not just on maintaining the buildings but also on preserving the heritage, so the legacy of the Omi Merchants may endure as it is passed on to future generations.

At NIPPONIA Gokasho, staying here offers a unique experience—an opportunity to connect with both the space and the community, creating something truly special in this area.

Please book directly through the provider

Name of Provider
NIPPONIA Gokasho Omi Merchants’ Town

Contact
https://en.nipponia-gokasho.jp (EN)
[email protected]

Activities & Pricing
The Tonomura Uhei Residence: 55,000 yen
Service charge per person (added to the rental fee):
- With breakfast: 10,000 yen
- Without breakfast: 5,000 yen
The Annex: 50,000 yen
Service charge per person (added to the rental fee):
- With breakfast: 6,500 yen
- Without breakfast: 5,000 yen
Local Activities
- Mochi pounding: 1,000 yen/person
- Night patrol / hand-held fireworks: 500 yen/person

- For more information about services, please check the website.
- Inquire about dinner and local activities when making your reservation.
- Breakfast and some partner restaurant dinners can accommodate allergies and dietary restrictions, such as vegan and vegetarian options. Please inform them at the time of reservation. Halal options are not available.
Reservation lReservations may be made through the website’s reservation form or via email.
lFor email inquiries, your booking is not finalized until you receive a confirmation, which will be sent within 2 days.
lPlease specify the dinner plan at the time of reservation.
lOptional activities offered by the local community may vary based on their schedule.

Business Hours & Holidays
Tuesdays

Check-in / out
4:00 pm / 10:00 am

Location
643-2 Gokasho Kondocho, Higashiomi, Shiga 529-1405

Payment Method
Cash or major credit cards

Age Requirements
None

Support for Foreign Visitors
- Foreign language speakers: None
- Communication is via translation devices or apps
- Some English-written information available

Insurance
Not provided (individual coverage is recommended)

Wi-Fi Access
Yes

Disabled Accessibility
N/A

Access
- The nearest station from the hotel is JR Notogawa Station, accessible by the JR Biwako Line from Kyoto or Maibara.
- From Notogawa Station:
- Bus: Take bus number 1 to Kondo Bus Stop (about 10 minutes; runs approximately twice an hour).
- Taxi: 10 mins
- By Taxi from Kyoto / Maibara
- About 1 hour from Kyoto.
- About 45 mins from Maibara.

Ride Service
N/A

*Prices as of 2024. May be subject to change. Please check with the provider for latest info.