Moriya, Kitamaebune Shipping Agent - Tourist Spot | Toyama City Official Tourism Website

[Important Notice] Due to the effects of the 2024 Noto Peninsula Earthquake, the facility will be closed until seismic reinforcement work is completed.
We plan to resume operations sometime after fiscal year 2027.

Learn about the wealth brought by the sea and the culture of the Kitamae ships.

This historical space, a former shipping agent's office from the Meiji period, offers a glimpse into the lives of Kitamae shipowners and the prosperity of Iwase.

The tranquil architectural beauty of this nationally designated important cultural property, which inherits the design of Edo-period townhouses, is its charm.

I was captivated by the exquisite details, such as the Yakusugi cedar plank doors and the massive boulders, showcasing the craftsmanship of the artisans.

The museum features a wealth of exhibits, including models of Kitamae ships and nautical charts, offering a deep understanding of the history of maritime transport and commerce.

The Morike residence, a Kitamaebune shipping agent's house located in Iwase, Toyama City, is the former home of a Kitamaebune ship owner, built around 11 (Meiji 1878).
This place retains the charm of a stately townhouse while conveying the prosperity of Iwase, where the "Kitamae-bune era" (the era of the Kitamae trading ships) was still alive.

A magnificent sliding door made from a single plank of Yakusugi cedar, a huge stone from Shodoshima Island placed in the earthen floor...
Just walking through the building, you can subtly sense the craftsmanship and the presence of wealthy merchants from that era, and enjoy a moment that feels like a gentle journey for the soul.

The museum displays models of Kitamae ships, nautical charts, and tools used in trade.
This space gently teaches us how Iwase was connected to the sea and how people, cultures, and wealth intersected there.

Currently, the museum is closed for seismic reinforcement work due to the effects of the 6 earthquake, but it is a historical building that we look forward to the day when we can once again experience the story of Iwase.

Facility information

Name	Morike, Kitamae-bune shipping agent
Address	108 Higashiiwasemachi, Toyama City
Phone	076-437-8960
Opening hours	9: 00-17: 00 (Admission until 16:30)
Usage Fees	Adults: 100 yen (90 yen), High school students and younger: Free *The price in parentheses is for groups of 20 or more. [Morike/Baba House Combined Ticket] Adults 180 yen (160 yen) (The Morike is temporarily closed, so combined tickets are not currently being sold.)
Holiday	The museum will be temporarily closed during the New Year's holiday period.
Access	From Toyama Station (North Exit), take the Toyama Port Line "bound for Iwasehama" (approximately 23 minutes) → Get off at "Higashi-Iwase" Station and walk for approximately 10 minutes. Approximately 30 minutes from the Toyama Interchange on the Hokuriku Expressway towards the city center.
Official Website	https://www.city.toyama.lg.jp/shisei/shisetsu/1011038/1011039/1008102.html