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One of a relatively few extant examples of [[Edo period]] [[chonin|commoner]] architecture, it features many elements typical of urban commoner homes and shops, and especially of geisha houses. Though the overall design shares much with ''[[machiya]]'', there are of course elements distinctive of a teahouse. Some of the chief distinguishing features are handrails (bannisters) facing the front, and overhangs over the inner garden.

One of a relatively few extant examples of [[Edo period]] [[chonin|commoner]] architecture, it features many elements typical of urban commoner homes and shops, and especially of geisha houses. Though the overall design shares much with ''[[machiya]]'', there are of course elements distinctive of a teahouse. Some of the chief distinguishing features are handrails (bannisters) facing the front, and overhangs over the inner garden.

Another important point is seen in the ''[[menkawabashira]]''<ref>"[http://www.aisf.or.jp/~jaanus/deta/m/menkawabashira.htm Menkawabashira]]." JAANUS. Accessed 5 December 2009.</ref> pillars which can be found around the building. They have four planed sides, but the corners are left natural, with the bark still on them; they were then lacquered in deep color. ''[[Bengara]]''-colored earthen walls, golden objects and the like were placed according to a definite plan, creating an elegant and refined look to the rooms.

Another important point is seen in the ''[[menkawabashira]]''<ref>"[http://www.aisf.or.jp/~jaanus/deta/m/menkawabashira.htm Menkawabashira]." JAANUS. Accessed 5 December 2009.</ref> pillars which can be found around the building. They have four planed sides, but the corners are left natural, with the bark still on them; they were then lacquered in deep color. ''[[Bengara]]''-colored earthen walls, golden objects and the like were placed according to a definite plan, creating an elegant and refined look to the rooms.

A large door called an ''[[odo|ôdo]]'' lays at the entrance. This would have been kept open during business hours, and closed to secure the entrance at other times. A regular-sized door cut into the ''[[keyaki]] ôdo'' allowed for access at these times.

A large door called an ''[[odo|ôdo]]'' lays at the entrance. This would have been kept open during business hours, and closed to secure the entrance at other times. A regular-sized door cut into the ''[[keyaki]] ôdo'' allowed for access at these times.