「近代和風建築の楽しみ方」
How to enjoy modern Japanese
architecture
昭和９年・建設ー匠の技
This house, also known as the former “Hayashida residence,” was once the
home of Mr. Harujiro Hayashida, the first mayor of Tagawa City during the Taisho
and Showa periods. He built this it as a
new annex in the 9th year of Showa.
Since then, the house has been familiar to people as “the Copper
Palace.” Hayashida’s accomplishments as
mayor were well known, but in particular he strived to achieve his dream of a
“Centennial Plan” for the development of pre-war Japan. His plan was left abandoned, however, because
of labor strife and the out break of World War II, the social and political
changes that came with them.
At
present, this house, known as “Awogiri,” has been designated as a national
registered tangible cultural property.
It received the endorsement of the Agency for Cultural Affairs, based on
that agency’s principle that, “preserving buildings to preserve culture.” It is our hope that this house will
contribute to this community and to its people.
We
would like to offer tips on enjoying this house, so that visitors can experience
the utopia that Hayashida dreamed of.
Please enjoying exploring “Awogiri.”あをぎり屋根伏せ図
The
outward appearance of recently built structures often gives a good view of
them. In this building’s case, the stone
wall is built high, making it appear like a small castle. The building is very dignified, and there is
an atmosphere of old-fashioned elegance and calm. Visitors may feel as if the air of 100 years
ago is still drifting through the house.
One highlight is the view overlooking the city of Tagawa, visible from
the top of the grand staircase on the right, accessible after exiting the long
hallway. A drawing room in the shoin style of traditional Japanese
architecture is located behind the broad porch.
This small room offers the view of the beautiful edge of the mountains
centering Mount Kawara, part of the utopia Hayashida dreamed of. Perhaps the flow of the river
could be seen from
the room at the time he lived here. He
also may have clearly seen the basin topography.
“Awogiri” has a 100-year history, and it is now taking steps into its
next 100 years. This house will continue
to convey the history and the new culture of Tagawa to everyone in the Chikuho
area and to visitors from around the world.
