The Kaga Domain Kita Residence is situated quietly about an hour’s drive from Kanazawa. The Kita family was one of the Tomura-yaku of the Kaga domain. Tomura-yaku were the top village officials controlling the operations of the village on behalf of the domain, which came into effect in 1604. They were responsible for collecting tributes, announcing domain rules, making maps, managing water supplies, and judging disputes.

The Kita family is believed to be the legitimate lineage of Yoshimune Nitta, the third son of Yoshisada Nitta, a prominent member of the Minamoto domain, and the first generation to settle in Kitakawajiri, Hakui-gun, Noto Province, in 1638. The Kita family served as Tomura-yaku for three generations from 1796.

The site has a vast area of over 23,000 square metres. Going through the heavy front gate with a thatched roof called Tomura-yaku Gate, we see the low, mortar-like shape of the land. This is believed to have been designed to avoid the buildings standing out, as the feudal lords and Samurai sometimes stayed there. The main building is located at the front, and the tool storehouse and Miso storehouse are located to the west of the main building. The interior of the main building is built to a high standard befitting the family’s Tomura-yaku position. The site, the front gate, the main building, the tool storehouse and the Miso storehouse are designated as National Important Cultural Properties.

The archive centre has a collection of cultural assets on display, including items received from the Kaga domain, which show the history of Tomura-yaku and the Kita family’s collection over the generations.Surrounded by dense forest, the appearance of this historic house is a valuable insight into the culture and nature of the area. Although the house is now owned by the town of Hodatsushimizu, the original owners are happy to give a detailed tour of the house. Why not come and see it for yourself?

Photos by Nik van der Giesen