Wineshark Japan Tour Hot Spots - Nakamachi Komise Street 中町こみせ通り

Address: 青森県黒石市中町36

Tel: 017-252-2558

Website: http://kuroishi.or.jp/sightseeing/komisedoori

Date of Visit: 2 Nov 2019

After trying out the rainbow trout at Lake Towada, we drove to Kuroishi, visiting the famous Nakamachi Komise, selected as one of the top 100 streets in Japan. The traditional buildings and arcades have remained in their original form since the Hansei period (藩政時代). This is said to be unparalleled nationwide.

The feature of Nakamachi Komise Street is that there is an arcade that protects people from the sun and snowstorm. This street, which used to be an old shopping street, is a street full of humanity that has created an arcade on their premises for those who came to shop.

One can visit the Takahashi Family House (高橋家), a nationally designated important cultural property in this street. The Takahashi family is a rice merchant in Kuroishi family for many generations. The name of the shop is called Yoneya (米屋) because it mainly handles rice grains. But the family also sells miso, soy sauce and salt.

Rihyo Takahashi (高橋理右衛門), who lived in Nakamachi in 1717, purchased the current site in 1755, and the family house was built in 1763. In addition, the site has been expanded twice in 1780 and 1800. It is a typical large merchant house in the Tsugaru district.

The Takahashi family house is open to visit, but since it is a private residence, it will be opened for only a limited period. Also, it is not open during the winter period (December to March).

Nakamura Kameyoshi (中村亀吉酒造) was founded by the owner of the same name in 1913, with the brewery under the name of Tamadare (玉垂). Since then, it has been carefully made by Tsugaru (津軽杜氏), who is their master brewer for many years.

Its sake is brewed with attention to the individuality of the brewery and the Tsugaru climate. It has been highly regarded and also won many awards in competitions. It is one of Tsugaru's representative local sake with a gentle and delicate taste.