Experience the Charm of Geisha Culture: A Precious Cultural Heritage
The Komatsuro Community Development Center (小松楼まちづくり交流館) is a renovated facility that was originally known as "Komatsuro (小松楼)". It operated as a geisha house and small restaurant from the Taishō era to the 20th year of the Shōwa era and now serves as a community hub.
The first floor of the Komatsuro Community Development Center functions as a civic gallery, featuring local artists' works and exhibits related to regional history. The second floor preserves the traditional tatami rooms used by geishas, allowing visitors to experience the historical ambiance of Komatsuro. Notable features include the bengara-colored (べんがら色) walls and unique layout, which are valuable remnants of historic architectural styles.
The center also displays items associated with the geisha culture from the Komatsuro era, such as shamisen, drums, combs, and cosmetics like Tai (黛). These artifacts provide a fascinating insight into geisha culture. Volunteer guides are available to offer detailed explanations, enhancing the historical experience.
The Komatsuro Community Development Center reopened in 2010 and is designated as a Registered Tangible Cultural Asset. The building was relocated to its current site from the late Meiji period and has undergone several renovations to achieve its present form.
