NaraTravel

Indigo dye merchant's machiya with goldfish-themed artworks and special exhibitions. The charming earth-floor corridor and courtyard are also highlights

About this spot

A facility renovated from the machiya townhouse of Kon'ya and the Okuno family, who engaged in indigo dyeing from the Edo period onward. It is an iconic structure in Konyachō, where the Kon'ya River flows down the center of the street. The name "Hakomotsu" derives from the self-governance system of Koriyama's town, said to have begun in the era of Toyotomi Hidekatsu. Inside the facility, you can admire fine art and crafts with goldfish motifs—such as glass-work and dyed textiles—as well as goldfish-themed special exhibitions. The machiya structure itself, featuring an earth-floor corridor, courtyard, and storehouses, is impressive. Indigo dyeing experiences are available with advance reservation, and dyeing a matching piece together makes a wonderful travel memento. A must-visit stop during your castle town stroll—a single location where you can savor both the character of a castle town and the charm of a goldfish town.

Tips

About a 10-minute walk from Kintetsu Koriyama Station, located along the Konyachō street where the Kon'ya River flows. Closed Mondays, so note the day of the week. Indigo dyeing experiences are fee-based and require advance reservation, so inquire early if interested. The street itself is a photo spot—enjoy taking photos as you walk, discovering goldfish motifs scattered throughout.