Omihachiman, the town where I lived for 40 years.
The buildings of William Merrell Vories

Omihachiman, a castle town nestled on the shores of Lake Biwa. Stepping onto the cobblestone streets, a nostalgic atmosphere mingles with the wind, enveloping you in a timeless warmth. As you walk through this town, you are sure to encounter the works of architect William Merrell Vories. Simple and understated exteriors, and the gentle air you feel the moment you open the door—

The buildings he left behind resonate with the hearts of the people who live there, and continue to breathe life into the townscape. 2025 marked the 120th anniversary of Vories' arrival in Japan. A local tour guide shares the "beauty" and "warmth of life" he discovered in Omihachiman in this letter.

Hello. Club Tourism This is Mitsuyo Yamashita, the tour conductor. Today, I will deliver the "gentle charm" of Omihachiman, where I have lived for more than 40 years, as if I were chatting during my trip.

Omi Hachiman is the adopted son of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, a castle town opened by Toyotomi Hidetsugu. At the foot of Mt. Hachiman, the "old town" with the townhouses of Omi merchants remains, and the waterway leading to Lake Biwa gives the city a breath. From the new scenery in front of the station, I walked a little to the old town. The air eases and the travel switch is turned on.

If you talk about this town, you can't miss the architecture of William Merrell Voorhees. Voorhees (Japanese name: Ichiyanagi Yoneruru) was a Christian missionary from the United States who was active in various fields such as architect, educator, and businessman. He came to Japan in the early 1900s and was based in Omihachiman, and as an architect, he designed many schools, churches, and commercial facilities nationwide (about 1,600). Representative works include the Daimaru Shinsaibashi store in Osaka, the Yamanogami Hotel in Tokyo, and the Khansei Gakuin University Kamigahara Campus in Nishinomiya.

Even though the exterior may be understated, stepping inside instantly fills you with warmth. That's the charm of Vories' architecture. In fact, the kindergarten my child attended (now the Hyde Memorial Hall of Vories Academy) was also designed by Vories. It was through the "comfort" of spending every day there that I first learned about the gentleness of architecture. In the old town, Vories' buildings can be found scattered around, such as the former post office, the former Yawata YMCA Hall (now the Andrews Memorial Hall), and cafes converted from private homes. The key is "don't judge by the exterior alone." If a facility is open to visitors, be sure to go inside and experience its "interior character."

If you're strolling through the old town, I recommend the Hachimanbori waterway that flows through it. As you gently rock in a traditional Japanese boat and listen to the sound of the reeds rustling in the wind, the hustle and bustle of city life seems to melt away. In spring, there are cherry blossoms; in autumn, pampas grass; and in winter, the stillness of the water's surface. If you're able to walk, I also recommend Hachimanyama. It's an easy mountain that even children can climb, and the view of the setting sun over Lake Biwa from the castle ruins is something that stays in your heart no matter how many times you see it. Thanks to the local people who have protected the stone walls and roads for generations, we can still enjoy this view today. I also feel a quiet sense of pride in the efforts to keep the flame of festivals burning, such as the traditional early spring event, "Sagicho."

Even small "aha!" moments add spice to a trip. For example, when I tell people on the bus that Omihachiman was the starting point for importing and selling Mentholatum (now Menturm by Omi Brotherhood), which is well-known for its topical ointment, everyone's eyes widen in surprise.

When you're hungry, try Omi beef. Even if it's not the top grade, Omi beef is incredibly delicious—that's the true strength of Omi beef. The freshly cooked rice is exceptional as well.

Omihachiman is a town that suits "deep emotion" more than "flashiness." The quiet beauty of Vories's architecture, the sound of water in the moat, the breeze on the mountaintop, the steam rising from the dinner table—none of these things make a big fuss, but as your trip comes to an end, they leave a lasting impression on your heart. 2025 marks the 120th anniversary of Vories' arrival in Japan. Why not take this opportunity to visit the old town of Omihachiman and experience the warmth hidden behind its doors? I would also be happy to be there to gently support your "first discovery."

*The information introduced in this article is based on information as of Jan. 2026. Please check the official website for the latest information.