History of the Tamashima Historic Townscape
Origins and Development
In 1642, during the Kan’ei era, Katsutaka Mizunoya became lord of the Bitchū-Matsuyama Domain. Under his leadership, construction began on Tamashima Port, land reclamation projects, and a merchant district. The Takase Waterway was opened to establish a major water route between Tamashima and Matsuyama. His successors, Katsumune Mizunoya and Katsumi Mizunoya, continued improving the waterways to make boat transportation more convenient.
The Period of Prosperity
Shinmachi’s merchant district once had 43 wholesale businesses, including Nishikuniya and Ōkuniya. As the western maritime route connecting Hokuriku with the Kamigata region developed, Tamashima flourished as a port of call for Kitamaebune trading ships. In 1671, an embankment known as the Shinmachi Embankment was built between Maruyama in Kashiwajima and Mount Haguro, helping stimulate commercial activity.
Decline of the Port
Over time, Tamashima Port declined because of factors including its division among three domains and a deterioration in the quality of its goods. The number of wholesale businesses in Shinmachi fell from 43 to just 13 by 1779, reflecting the sharp decline in commercial activity during the late 18th century.
Modern Development and Preservation
In 1960, as the Mizushima coastal industrial zone developed, Tamashima Port was incorporated into the Tamashima Port District of Mizushima Port and designated as an important port. In 1995, Okayama Prefecture designated the historic townscape as its eighth townscape preservation district.
Shinmachi District
Overview and History
Located in the central part of the preservation district, Shinmachi corresponds to part of present-day Tamashima Chūōchō 1-chōme in Kurashiki City. The neighborhood stands on an embankment constructed in the sea during the early Edo period to accommodate port facilities. As a result, the area is higher than its surroundings. Despite its proximity to the harbor, traces of an old landing place can still be found on its northern side.
In 1671, the Ōmori family carried out land reclamation under the direction of the Mizunoya family, lords of the Bitchū-Matsuyama Domain. An embankment was constructed between Haguro Shrine and Maruyama in Kashiwajima. It also served as a port and trading facility. Storehouses lined the southern side facing the harbor, while a district of wholesale merchants developed along the northern side.
Historic Sights in Shinmachi
Highlights include the birthplace of Tamaki Yasuhara, a female poet; Ōkuniya, the birthplace of Kawada Kōkō, a scholar of Chinese classics; and the historic storehouse of Nishikuniya. Visitors can appreciate the traditional architecture and imagine the commercial activity that once filled these streets.
Nakagaichō District
Origins of the Neighborhood
As Shinmachi developed, intermediaries and merchants moved into the surrounding area. The neighborhood gradually became known as Nakagaichō, or the district of middlemen, and prospered alongside the main merchant quarter.
Historic Sights in Nakagaichō
Kikuchi Sake Brewery: The Kikuchi family served as village headmen for generations and began brewing sake around the Meiji period. Kondo Manjō, a scholar of Japanese classics and a poet, was born as the family’s second son.
Shiragami Paper Shop: Originally opened under the name Echizenya on the eastern shore of Tamashima Port in the mid-Edo period, the business later relocated to Nakagaichō, where it continued operating.
Former Tamashima Credit Cooperative: The building was constructed in 1935 and later became the Tamashima Credit Cooperative. It was subsequently used by the Tamashima Chamber of Commerce and Industry until 1978.
Tamashima Miso and Soy Sauce Storehouses: Located along the road from Nakagaichō toward Entsūji Temple, these storehouses once formed part of the residence of the village headman of Agasaki Shinden Village.
Yoshida Tatami Shop: Known as the oldest tatami shop in Nakagaichō, it reflects the neighborhood’s long tradition of local commerce.
Kamogataya: Founded as a kimono fabric shop during the Meiji period, this historic business recalls the area’s traditional retail trade.
Ideya: Once a prosperous shipping wholesaler from the Edo through the Meiji period, the building dates to the mid-Edo period. The business continues today as Inoue Shoji, handling fertilizers, agricultural supplies, and animal feed.
Yanagiyu: This establishment originally operated as a theater called Kamemikōza. It now serves as a public bathhouse, preserving a connection with the neighborhood’s former entertainment culture.
Discover Tamashima’s Historic Port Town
The Tamashima Historic Townscape Preservation District was once a center of commerce and maritime transportation during the Edo period. Its historic merchant houses, storehouses, and traditional streets remain important reminders of the town’s prosperity and cultural heritage.
Walking through Shinmachi and Nakagaichō offers visitors an opportunity to experience the atmosphere of an old Japanese port town and discover the buildings and stories that have been preserved for future generations. The district’s conservation efforts continue to protect this distinctive part of Kurashiki’s history, making it a rewarding destination for travelers interested in traditional architecture and local culture.