Park Overview and Location
Naruto Salt Field Park is situated near the southern end of Naruto Uchinoumi Park, overlooking the calm waters of Uchinoumi Bay. In the southwestern part of the park stands the Fukunaga Family Residence, a historic property associated with salt production dating back to the Edo period.
The site provides an opportunity to learn how salt was produced before modern industrial methods became widespread. Its historic architecture and peaceful coastal setting make it an appealing destination for travelers interested in Japanese history and traditional industries.
The Salt Fields and the Fukunaga Family Residence
The Fukunaga family operated a salt-making business after moving to Takashima around 1661–1673. They produced salt using a traditional method known as iri-hama, or beach-based salt production, which involved using seawater and tidal flats to obtain concentrated brine before evaporating it to extract salt.
The family’s former residence has been preserved as a valuable historical site, illustrating the close relationship between local communities and the salt industry. The surviving buildings and production-related facilities help visitors understand how salt-making businesses were organized and operated in earlier centuries.
Historical Buildings and Their Development
The main residence of the Fukunaga family was built in 1828, during the Edo period. An additional detached reception building was constructed in 1832, followed by a storehouse in 1833.
Together with other structures used for salt production and storage, these buildings formed the center of the family’s business. Their arrangement provides valuable evidence of how a traditional salt-making enterprise functioned, combining family living quarters with facilities essential to commercial production.
The Fukunaga Family Residence: An Important Cultural Property
The Fukunaga Family Residence was designated a National Important Cultural Property of Japan on May 20, 1976, in recognition of its historical and architectural significance.
The original property consists of nine buildings, five of which were donated to Naruto City and are preserved and made available for public appreciation within the park. These surviving structures provide a rare opportunity to explore the built heritage of Japan’s traditional salt-making industry.
Main Residence
Built in 1828, the main house served as the Fukunaga family’s home. It reflects the architecture of a prosperous family engaged in the salt-making business during the late Edo period.
Brine Storage Facility
The brine storage facility, known as a kansui-dame, was used to hold concentrated saltwater during the production process. Brine was an essential intermediate stage in extracting salt from seawater.
Salt Storehouse
The salt storehouse was used to store the finished product. It was renovated in 1909, reflecting the continued use and adaptation of the property beyond the Edo period.
Firewood Storehouse
Firewood was essential for heating and evaporating brine during traditional salt production. This storehouse was used to keep the fuel needed for the operation.
Traditional Storehouse
Built in 1833, the earthen storehouse is another important surviving structure. It displays materials and tools associated with the salt-making industry, helping visitors understand the practical techniques used by the family.
Getting to Naruto Salt Field Park
From JR Naruto Station on the Naruto Line, the park is approximately a 20-minute drive. A common route passes over Konaruto Bridge. The Fukunaga Family Residence is located within the park and can be visited as part of the same trip.
The surrounding Naruto area offers numerous other attractions, making the park a worthwhile addition to a broader sightseeing itinerary.
Experience the History and Scenery of Naruto
Naruto Salt Field Park offers a fascinating look at Tokushima’s traditional salt-making industry and the lives of the families who sustained it. The Fukunaga Family Residence, designated a National Important Cultural Property, is especially valuable for its surviving buildings and the historical story they preserve.
With its combination of historic architecture, traditional industrial heritage, and views of the peaceful waters of Uchinoumi Bay, the park is an appealing destination for history enthusiasts, cultural travelers, and families exploring the Naruto region.