Do You Know? The Oldest Brick Building in Morioka City.
This time i am introducing the historically renowned Former Ishii Governor's Residence.
Historical Western-style House in Morioka with Meiji Era Charm
The "Former Ishii Governor's Residence," located in Shimizu-cho, Morioka City, is the oldest authentic brick Western-style house in Morioka.
This residence was constructed as a private home for Shoichiro Ishii, a member of the House of Peers, between 1885 and 1886.
It is one of the early Western-style buildings in Japan and was designated as a historic building by Morioka City in 1977.
Historical Background and Architectural Features
The Former Ishii Governor's Residence stood out in Morioka at the time.
The rooms in the semi-basement, first floor, second floor, and attic feature tiles and fireplaces believed to be imported from abroad at the time.
The exterior avoids extravagant decoration, characterized by a simple and elegant design.
Relief-style decorations are applied at the junction of the floors and roof, with vertically opening windows featuring fanlight transoms at the top.
This Western-style house, built using the latest techniques and designs of the time, is very valuable as a relic of early Meiji-era Western architecture.
Beauty in Every Season
Ivy naturally wraps around the surroundings of the residence, coloring the scenery in every season.
In spring, you see fresh greenery; in summer, lush green leaves; in autumn, vivid autumn leaves; and in winter, snow-covered landscapes.
Each visit offers a different view, enhancing the historical value of the residence.
Access and Information
The Former Ishii Governor's Residence is easily accessible from the center of Morioka City and is popular as a tourist spot.
- Address: 7-51 Shimizu-cho, Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture, 020-0875
- Access:
- About 10 minutes by taxi from JR Morioka Station
- About 15 minutes by bus from JR Morioka Station. Take the Suido-bashi bus line No. 12 from Morioka Station and get off at Shimonohashi-machi, then walk 5 minutes.
- Phone Number: 019-651-1606
- Parking: None
- Holidays: Irregular holidays
- Opening Hours: Mon-Sun 11:00–18:00 (Please check the official blog for open periods)
- Admission Fee: Free
- Facilities & Services: Toilets
Online Information
Detailed and latest information about the Former Ishii Governor's Residence can be found on its official blog and Instagram.
You can learn more about its value as a historical building and its appeal as a tourist destination.
