A Traditional Townhouse in the Heart of the Makabe Preservation District
This unique two-story property is situated in the very center of the Makabe Important Traditional Buildings Preservation Area in Ibaraki Prefecture, a mere 100 meters from the Makabe Denshokan, a facility dedicated to passing on the town's history and culture to future generations. The house features a 9-tsubo (approximately 29.7 sqm) former shop space facing the western public road, offering excellent potential for reuse as a retail shop, studio, or garage. While the oldest section of the main residence dates back to 1928 (Showa 3), renovations have been carried out, resulting in a comfortable living space that doesn't feel overly dated and requires no major immediate repairs.
The property is equipped with electricity, public water supply, and public sewer. A charming and traditional hori kotatsu (a sunken foot warmer) adds a touch of classic Japanese ambiance. The second floor contains a continuation of the tatami rooms, providing ample space. The entire plot is enclosed by a wall, ensuring privacy from outside views. Notably, the storage shed (naya) at the eastern rear of the property is in very good condition. The main house contains some unregistered sections, and the total fixed asset tax is a low 10,500 yen per year.
The location is highly convenient for daily life, with a supermarket, home improvement store, and post office all within a walkable distance of approximately 0.8 to 0.9 km. The area truly comes to life during the famous Makabe Hina Matsuri (Doll Festival). For a fascinating local fact, the Makabe area is renowned for its stone masonry, and many of the preserved buildings in the district feature beautiful stone walls and storehouses, a craft that dates back centuries. The closest major landmark is the stunning Mount Tsukuba, a famous twin-peaked mountain sacred in Japanese mythology, located approximately 25 km away and offering hiking trails and panoramic views.