Denshokuen

The Kikuchi Family's Curved House in Denshoen is said to be the oldest of the southern curved houses, built around 1750. This building was designated as an important cultural property of the country in 1976, recognizing its historical value and rarity. Various exhibits and activities are held at the Kikuchi Family's Curved House to convey the culture and life of Tono. Furniture and folk tools from the past are on display, allowing you to catch a glimpse of what life was like in Tono. In addition, events such as "Old Tales Around the Hearth" where you can reserve a spot, silkworm breeding, and the reproduction of traditional events are also held, allowing you to experience Tono's traditions and customs. The Kikuchi Family's Curved House is an important facility for preserving and passing down Tono's history and culture. The building itself is a sight to see, allowing you to feel the traces of the time when the people of Tono and horses lived together. When you visit, we recommend that you take an interest in history and culture and visit this valuable building, which is said to be worth seeing.

The Otsugami Shrine in the Densho-en Garden is a small shrine that appears when you walk down a narrow, dimly lit corridor at the back of the crooked house. This shrine is home to over a thousand Oshirasama dolls, known for the story of the love between a daughter and a horse. Oshirasama is known as the god of silkworms, agriculture, horses, and announcements. At the Otsugami Shrine, you can experience wearing a cloth called Oshirasama Chakufu as a wish. This cloth is worn to receive the blessings of Oshirasama, and visitors can wear it with their own wishes and prayers in mind. The Otsugami Shrine is an important place that symbolizes the traditions and beliefs of Tono. Through the exhibition of Oshirasama dolls and the experience of wearing Oshirasama Chakufu, you can express your gratitude and wishes for sericulture and agriculture. When you visit, enjoy the sacred atmosphere that spreads out beyond the small shrine and touch upon the history and culture of Tono.

The Noriya Longhouse at Denshoen is a relocated building that was originally a barn on a farm built around 1850. It was once used as a storage and workspace, but now functions as the entrance to Denshoen. This building also served as the entrance or gate of the farm. The Noriya Longhouse welcomes visitors to Denshoen and is used as a souvenir shop. On the right side of the building, there is a restaurant where you can buy local specialties and souvenirs. The Noriya Longhouse is a building that evokes the history and traditions of Tono and plays a role in conveying the charm of the region to visitors. Through the appearance and atmosphere of the Noriya Longhouse, you can catch a glimpse of the lifestyle and climate of the former farming village. When visiting Denshoen, we recommend visiting the Noriya Longhouse to enjoy local specialties and meals!

At the Craft Museum in Denshoen, you can enjoy various craft experiences. You can experience traditional techniques and crafts such as making Otedama (a Japanese traditional toy) and painting Ema (a wooden plaque for writing wishes). These experiences are especially recommended for those who want to enjoy creative activities while feeling like a child again. The museum has professional instructors and staff who provide guidance, creating an environment where even beginners can participate with peace of mind. The process of creating your own original folk craft will be a valuable experience that nurtures creativity and concentration while touching on traditional culture. Not only can you take your own handmade work home as a memory, but you can also learn about the region's culture and technology through the museum's exhibits and works. Please come and experience the joy of making folk crafts at the Craft Museum in Denshoen!

At Denshoen, you can enjoy traditional Tono cuisine. First, there is "hittsumi," one of the traditional dishes passed down in Tono. This is a dish where sweet bean paste made from azuki beans is wrapped in mochi skin and boiled. It has a chewy texture and the flavor of azuki beans, making it a favorite among locals. Another Tono specialty is called "keiran." This is a dish where sweet bean paste made from azuki beans is wrapped in mochi skin and steamed. It has a chewy texture and sweetness, and you can also enjoy a faint aroma. In addition, there is "yaki-mochi," a traditional Tono snack. This is made by grilling mochi rice cakes over charcoal, with black sugar and walnuts inside. The crispy and sweet flavors are perfectly balanced, and one bite will make you feel happy. Another famous dish at Denshoen is "kappa soba." This is soba noodles with grated yam, okra, nameko mushrooms, and kappa-yaki (small fried fish). The combination of various ingredients creates an appetizing dish. At Denshoen, you can taste these traditional Tono dishes. Please enjoy the unique flavors and deliciousness while feeling the local culture and traditions.