NIPPONIA Gokasho: Town of Omi Merchants

Gokasho Kondo, the birthplace of the Omi merchants who laid the foundation of modern Japanese economy, is a nationally designated Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings with historical scenery dating back to the late Edo period. Stroll through this historic townscape and enjoy the serene rows of storehouses with boat plank fences and white plaster walls, offering a glimpse into the lifestyle of Omi merchants that still lingers today.

NIPPONIA Gokasho Omi Merchant Town offers a stay in two distinct "Omi Merchant Residences"—the "Main House: Sotomura Ubei Residence" and the "Detached House: Nakagawa Jun-goro Residence," both overlooking stunning Japanese gardens. With the flexibility of renting an entire house, you can use the multiple tatami rooms as private spaces or open them up for a spacious setting, making it ideal for group trips or family vacations. Enjoy a special time in these historic Omi Merchant residences.

A Japanese-modern guest room overlooking a traditional strolling garden with a pond, designed to surround the residence. You can enjoy an exclusive stay in this detached house, which was once used as a guest room to welcome visitors to the main residence of "Jun Goro Nakae," an Omi merchant who built a network of approximately 20 department stores.

【Main Building: Okamura Ubei Residence】 Experience the history of Omi with a traditional Japanese breakfast inspired by the meals eaten by Omi merchants on their departure day, supervised by the local restaurant "Kokarokkon." Enjoy dishes such as pure dashi broth, rice cooked in an earthen pot, and seasonal local ingredients. 【Annex: Nakagawa Jun-Goro Residence】 Start your day with a healthy breakfast featuring carefully selected bread and smoothies.