Led by Asia Society Japan’s Arts Committee, we embarked on a visit to see the ancient Kominka houses—traditional Japanese farmhouses nestled atop the hill in Kamakura. Once forsaken remnants, these houses found salvation through the efforts of architect Yoshihiro Takishita, the Founding President of the NPO Preservation of Traditional Japanese Farmhouses, along with his adopted father, John Roderick.

Mr. Takishita graciously led us through these exquisite houses, meticulously preserved without the use of nails, having been relocated from various regions across Japan including Gifu and Shiga. He illuminated the structural grandeur of these farmhouses, narrating their rich history as homes that sheltered generations of farmers. In the pursuit of safeguarding these houses, he has amassed a collection of Shiguchi, or traditional joinery. Each piece, painstakingly hand-carved, contributes dimension and character, resembling intricate artworks and sculptures. This experience granted us a precious and uncommon insight into Japan's cultural heritage.

Thank you, Takishita-san, for generously sharing your experiences in preserving these magnificent Kominka houses.