Using Google Maps it was pretty easy to find, which is good because the local signage was a bit inconsistent. But as soon as we walked up the driveway, we were all impressed. It has a lovely thatched roof, tatami rooms, attic space that people are welcome to go into, and a lovely ambiance.
They encouraged us to explore the whole house, even the second story where they pointed out a small hole for the kids to peek through down to the first floor. I loved hearing them squeal with laughter when they caught sight of each other through the floor/ceiling.
The building was a bit smoky from the open fire, but when we realized we could cook yakitori and dango, we didn't care about the smoke. The boys were excited to cook their treats, as were we. After grilling them for a short time, the kids took turns dipping the little balls into a soy sauce and sugar slurry. We then grilled them for a bit more before digging in.
While the adults sat around the fire and chatted, the boys headed outside. The staff played badminton and baseball with the kids, entertaining them for a while as we finished our tea and had a nice little chat. They also showed them a couple traditional toys that were a big hit, including two sticks that when rubbed together make a propeller revolve.
I don't know much about it beyond that it was built in 1721. But it was a really neat old house, tucked in the middle of several houses (that were all built much more recently). I'm glad we made the effort to go investigate this old home.
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