The former Satsuma Village chief's house – Shibuya Family Residence, a nationally registered tangible cultural property – Located in Nakazatsuma 1-chome, Kamagaya City, the Shibuya Family Residence is the birthplace of Shibuya Sōji, an important figure of the Akahōtai during the late Edo period. The Shibuya family has served as village chiefs for generations since the mid-Edo period, and their residence is a grand building befitting of a chief. The main house, built exactly 200 years ago in 1826 (Bunsei 9), is the oldest existing building in the city. Its large floor plan and tall roof make it a standout in the Satsuma District. The roof features thatched roofing covered with iron plates shaped like tiles, and upon entering and looking up at the ceiling, one can still see the thatch from the Edo period. A notable feature of the Shibuya Family Residence is that the main layout has remained unchanged since its construction. The entrance hall for welcoming guests, along with the inner rooms known as Nakano-ma and Oku-no-ma, have hardly been altered and retain their original appearance. The Tokonoma (alcove), display shelves, and attached writing alcove in Oku-no-ma have also not been remodeled, creating a space of high formality. The sturdy pillars, beams, and the kamidana (household shrine) in the living room still reflect the original construction, showcasing the traditional farmhouse layout that has continued since the Edo period. The Shibuya family possesses a "house layout diagram" drawn in 1848 (Kaei 1). This valuable document not only depicts the layout of the house but also includes images of the storehouse, shed, and household deity, conveying the conditions of the late Edo period. The fact that both the building and the diagram have been preserved together is extremely valuable. Comparing the diagram with the current state reveals that the land divisions are accurately depicted, and the layout of the buildings remarkably matches the current floor plan. The building has remained largely unchanged since its construction and has been continuously inhabited, evidencing the Shibuya family's dedication to preserving this home. Furthermore, it retains the traditional landscape of a settlement built along the base of a plateau facing the highway. The depiction of the plateau in the diagram reflects the original scenery of the Satsuma settlement that still exists today. Over the years, the Shibuya Family Residence has suffered some damage. Future plans include preservation and repair work, seismic reinforcement, and renovations for community use, aiming to develop it into a place of relaxation for the region. For more details, please check the city’s website! 【Cultural and Sports Division】 https://www.city.kamagaya.chiba.jp/smph/kosodate-kyouiku/kyoikuindex/bunka_menu/sibuyakemaruya.html