In Noheji, which developed as a port town for the Morioka clan during the Edo period, goods from the territory such as soybeans, copper (Osarizawa Copper Mine) and Iwashi-shimekasu (fish fertilizer made from sardines) were shipped to port towns such as Ezo, Hokuriku, Seto Inland Sea, Kansai, and others by the westward route. It is said that ships with a capacity between 700 koku (about 126 cubic meters) and 1200 koku (about 216 cubic meters) were crowded in the port, and large shops of wealthy merchants nestled up to one another in the town at that time. The Noheji Town History and Folklore Museum stores many documents related to voyages and trade by Kitamae-bune.
ports of call
Cultural Properties of Noheji Town
All-night light of Hamacho
A stone lantern built by the Nomura Family who made their wealth through Kitamae-bune.
Massha Kotohiragu Honden
A Shinto shrine that was collectively donated by the small-cargo vessel wholesalers in town to prayer for the maritime safety of Kitamae-bune.
Former Nomura family's guest house (a temporary palace) with storehouse
This is a separate residence of the wealthy merchant Jisaburo Nomura, who made their fortune through Kitamae-bune.
Documents relating to Kitamae-bune
Documents relating to Kitamae-bune including old archives and Japanese compasses.
Kitamae-bune sailors' tomb and finials
The tombs of Kitamae-bune sailors who died on the voyage to Noheji-minato (Noheji Port) and in the town. The giboshi (decorative finials) were donated by the shipowners of Kitamae-bune around the country.
Stonework transported by Kitamae-bune
Stonework made of stones from the Seto Inland Sea that was loaded as ballast on Kitamae-bune.
Noheji Gion Festival
A festival brought from Kyoto by Kitamae-bune.
Chagayu (tea porridge) of Kawaraketumei (Cassia mimosoides plant)
This is chagayu is cooked with tea made by roasting Kawaraketumei peas. It is believed that it was brought from Osaka by Kitamae-bune.
