In 1189, 36 members of the Fujiwara Clan are said to have settled in Miyanoura in northern Sakata. The 36 helped develop a shipping trade in the region, which in turn formed the foundation of Sakata.

Abumiya was said to have been one of the leaders of this effort, and as a result the business grew over generations. By the 1600s this was one of the main agents in the burgeoning shipping business.

The Historical Abumiya Residence was the home and base of operations for Abumiya. The head of the household also held top economic and political positions in Sakata. The building itself near Sakata City Hall was rebuilt in 1845 following an earthquake and subsequent fire. Exhibitions are on display that illustrate how business was conducted, and also offer a hint to daily life from the 1800s.

Abumiya also has a central garden and multiple buildings to explore making it a great 30-40 minutes add-on to an itinerary in downtown Sakata. It is also located nearby the Honma Residence however a visit to both facilities may be redundant for those without a particular interest in the merchant history of Sakata City.