What to know
The Kamihaga Residence (上芳我邸, Kamihagatei) is the former home and workshop of the Kamihaga family, a branch of Uchiko's most influential family, the Honhaga. Located in the Yokaichi Old Town, this large complex includes a spacious Meiji Period residence and a museum dedicated to Uchiko's wax industry.
Uchiko wax was highly regarded at the start of the Meiji Period, bringing modest prosperity to the town. This was especially true for the Honhaga household, Uchiko's main wax producers. Together with the Kamihaga, they created the distinctive 'Crane in the Sunrise' label, which made Uchiko internationally known.
In 1900, the Honhaga family showcased their goods at the Paris World Expo, spreading Uchiko's reputation for high-quality wax to Europe and America. This led to a new level of success, with average yearly profits equivalent to over one billion yen in today's currency.
The Kamihaga Residence includes an informative wax museum with displays in both English and Japanese. The wax-making process is explained through entertaining miniature exhibits, and products made under the 'Crane in the Sunrise' label are on display.
Beyond the wax museum, the family residence itself is a beautifully preserved example of a prosperous family's living quarters from the early 1900s. Elegant tatami rooms with painted screens and decorative pottery blend with Western elements that grew more popular as the 20th century progressed.
The Kamihaga Residence is located in the Yokaichi Old Town, about a 20-30 minute walk from JR Uchiko Station.
Visitor information
Practical details to check before planning this stop.
- Hours
- 9:00 to 16:30
- Closed
- December 29 to January 2
- Admission
- 500 yen (~$3.2)
- English name
- Original name
- Kamihaga Residence
Verify details before visiting. Currency conversion is indicative and may vary over time.