The Waterhouse Memorial Hall was built in 1913 by the Vories' Unlimited Partnership for the residence of Paul B. Waterhouse and his family, an American who worked as a Christian missionary together with William M. Vories in Omihachiman.
Waterhouse begam supporting William M. Vories, inspired by the work and passion that Vories displayed in local missionary endeavors. The Waterhouse Memorial Hall was built to commemorate his family's evangelistic devotion.
In June 2008, after about 100 years of reconstruction, the building was fully restored by the Omi Brotherhood Public Interest Incorporated Foundation, and registered as a National Tangible Cultural Property. In 2023, projects began to further preserve the building while providing some of its intended utility such as an accommodation facility.
5-21 Ikedamachi Omihachiman, Shiga
JR Omihachiman Station. Exit the North Gate, and take a local bus or taxi for 5 minutes.
Take the Meishin Expressway for about 1.5 hours. Exit at Ryuo IC, then take Route 477 towards Hachimanbori (八幡堀) for 12 minutes.
Take the Meishin Expressway for about 1 hour and 40 minutes. Exit at Ryuo IC, and go on Route 477 towards Hachimanbori (八幡堀) direction for 12 minutes.
＊ Designated parking lot available. However, the local streets are narrow and one-way, so please let us know in advance if you come by car.
