Welcome to Our Home
A Living Legacy
Experience the harmony of Japanese tradition and Catholic heritage in our family home, where 16th-century samurai history meets spiritual transformation.
Our Family Legacy
From the Isshiki clan of the 16th century to today’s Catholic heritage
Our family’s history stretches back to the 16th century when we were known as the Ishiki clan. During the tumultuous era of warring clans, as powerful families fought for the title of shogun, the Ishiki clan also found themselves in fierce battle with the nearby governors.
This conflict left its mark on the land. One street in Ishida still bears the name“The Slope of Battle” in remembrance of those times.
After this, some members of the Ishiki clan changed their name to Yamazoe and resettled in the Ishida district. A small hill, once used to monitor enemy movements over the Iwataki plains and sea, is now the family cemetery.
Our Home
Built by our grandfather with thoughtful craftsmanship and refined elegance
Built by our grandfather—a successful silk fabric factory owner and respected landowner—this house was designed to welcome business guests and esteemed visitors. It reflects the thoughtful craftsmanship and refined elegance of traditional Japanese architecture.
From the careful balance of simplicity and complexity in its design to the tranquil garden views, every detail of the house invites you to slow down and breathe. We hope you’ll experience the quiet calm that fills each room, a gentle stillness that soothes the mind.
Our Gardens
Where nature speaks through seasons and tranquil beauty
Step into our Japanese garden, where a stone lantern rests among pruned trees and moss-covered ground. In the backyard, you’ll find a wilder, woodland-inspired space that mirrors the changing seasons—framed by a mountain that shifts in color throughout the year.
The sounds here are few but rich: birdsong, the hum of insects, and the soft rhythm of a weaving machine from a neighbor’s workshop. It’s a space that speaks through nature.
Restoration with Respect
Preserving the original spirit while honoring generations past
Time took its toll on the house, but when we began restoration, we were committed to preserving its original spirit. The walls were restored by a master sakan plasterer and traditional shrine carpenters handled other key repairs. The only complete replacement during the restoration is the tatami mats in our tea room.
We chose to keep the small scratches and markings on the walls—reminders of the generations who lived, laughed, and grew here. These traces of the past are now part of the story we continue to share.
How We Became Catholic
A spiritual transformation that made our home a place of faith and community
When you step into our home, you may be surprised to see a statue of Madonna and Child.
Although our family had been Buddhist for generations, our grandfather converted to Catholicism in 1947 at Miyazu Church, along with his wife and daughter. His conversion was deeply influenced by a professor from Kobe University.
After that, our home became a gathering place for the local Catholic community. Mass was held here, meals were shared, and the house became a place of comfort for those seeking both physical and spiritual nourishment. In 1949, this very home hosted a recital by Italian priest Vincenzo Cimatti and other Italian priests, with the space filled, extending to the entrance.
Father James, a priest from Canada, led many of the masses and taught catechism here. Our grandfather even built a small residence in the backyard to host visiting priests. That house no longer remains, but the garden where it stood is still here—filled with trees and blooming flowers that continue to welcome our guests.
Cultural Experiences
We are happy to offer hands-on cultural experiences for our guests
Flower Arrangement
1.5 hour
Learn the Sagagoryu style from Daikakuji Temple in Kyoto
Japanese Tea Experience
1.5 hour
Learn how to prepare and enjoy both Matcha and Sencha
Family Cooking
2 hour
Join us to cook traditional family meals for lunch or dinner
Furoshiki Wrapping
1.5 hour
Discover how to wrap objects using traditional cloth beautifully
Walking Tour of Amanohashidate
2-4 hours
We will take you around Amanohashidate with three fun plans to choose from
Places to Visit
Discover the scenic beauty and rich culture of northern Kyoto Prefecture
Located in northern Kyoto Prefecture, our town of Yosano is surrounded by the scenic beauty and rich culture of Miyazu and Kyotango.
You’ll find dramatic coastal cliffs, the famous Amanohashidate sandbar, peaceful fishing villages with boat houses, hot springs, terraced rice fields, and clear rivers. Whether you’re exploring historic sites or soaking in natural views, this region invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and simply be yourself.
Access
Our home is located in Yosano Town, Yosa District,
in the northern part of Kyoto Prefecture, Japan