【Aizu Buke Yashiki(Samurai Residence) summary】
In 1975, the Aizu Bukeyashiki (Aizu samurai residence) was restored to its original Japanese-style architecture of the mid-Edo period by relocating the residence of Saigo Yoritomo, a retainer of the Aizu domain and a central figure in the Boshin War and Byakkotai, and other buildings in order to pass on the spirit of bushido of the Aizu domain to future generations. The site covers an area of 2,400 tsubos (about 2,400 m2), and the facilities have been well preserved, making it a valuable cultural heritage site. (The actual residence was located near the main gate of Tsurugajo Castle.) It is also home to a tourist antenna store and a restaurant, and is one of the places of interest where visitors can learn about the history of the Aizu domain.
【Aizu Buke Yashiki(Samurai Residence) precincts】
Visitors are required to pay an admission fee and follow a route to visit the facility. The general admission fee is 950 yen.
The front entrance often seen in period dramas and the alcove for welcoming lords and dignitaries are wonderfully made, reminiscent of a historic temple or shrine.
The garden from the entrance side of the building is a seasonal sight.
If you visit the building while imagining its usability, you will understand that each of them is positioned to fulfill a specific role.
The lack of air conditioning in the exhibition and other rooms made it steamy in the summer, but I felt that the shaded areas were well ventilated. I was glad to see that the building has been beautifully maintained without losing its atmosphere, even though it seems to have been moved a lot.
【Aizu Buke Yashiki(Samurai Residence) precincts Aizu Tenmangu Shrine】
There was a shrine quietly sitting behind the Aizu samurai residence.
Saigo Yoritomo, a retainer of the Aizu domain, had a deep knowledge of learning and respected Sugawara no Michizane, so he invited Sugawara Shrine to his own residence. After the Boshin War, the shrine was temporarily enshrined at Hakkaku Shrine in Aizu Wakamatsu, but was moved to this location when the Saigo residence was restored.
【Aizu Buke Yashiki(Samurai Residence) Nearby attractions】
Tsuruga Castle, Sazae Temple, Iimoriyama Itsukushima Shrine, Higashiyama Onsen Hot Spring
【Aizu Buke Yashiki(Samurai Residence) Access】
Manager’s Comments
It is a facility that not only children but also adults can enjoy, as they can learn what kind of houses samurai lived in. There is also an archery experience, and I actually tried it, but I did not hit anything at all. The admission fee is a bit expensive (950 yen), but if you like the end of the Edo period or history, this is a must-see.
1-1 Ishiyama-inchi, Higashiyama-cho, Aizuwakamatsu-shi, Fukushima 965-0813
※Free parking available