Former Samurai Residence: A Glimpse into Edo-Era Life
Explore the well-preserved Former Samurai Residence in Matsue, offering an immersive glimpse into Edo-era samurai life and architecture.
The Former Samurai Residence, or Matsue Bukeyashiki, offers a captivating glimpse into the world of middle-class samurai during the Edo period. Located in the historic Shiomi Nawate district near Matsue Castle, this well-preserved residence provides an authentic representation of samurai life in a mid-sized castle town. Built in 1733, the residence features a main building, a nagaya-style gate, and an outer wall, all reflecting the architectural style of the Edo period. Inside, visitors can explore the public and private quarters, observing the distinct differences in design and materials that highlight the separation between a samurai's public duties and family life. The residence showcases furniture, livingware, and katana drawers, offering insights into the daily routines and customs of the time. The garden, with its understated design, embodies the samurai values of simplicity and fortitude. Recent restoration work, completed in 2016, has further enhanced the visitor experience, with the Meiji-era layout carefully recreated based on historical documents. The Former Samurai Residence stands as a testament to Matsue's rich history and cultural heritage, providing a tangible link to Japan's feudal past.
Local tips
- Take off your shoes before entering the main building to respect the traditional customs and preserve the interior.
- Explore the garden behind the house for a moment of quiet contemplation and to appreciate the understated beauty of Izumo-style landscaping.
- Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Matsue Castle and the Lafcadio Hearn Memorial Museum for a comprehensive cultural experience.
A brief summary to Former Samurai Residence
- Kitahoricho, 塩見縄手305, Matsue, 塩見縄手 Kitahoricho, Shimane, 690-0888, JP
- +81852-22-2243
Getting There
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Walking
From Matsue Castle, exit to the north and walk along the Shiomi Nawate street. The Former Samurai Residence is a short walk along this historic street, located on the left-hand side. Admission is ¥400 for adults.
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Public Transport
From JR Matsue Station, take the Lakeline bus and get off at the Koizumi Yakumo Memorial Hall bus stop. From there, it's a short 2-minute walk to the Former Samurai Residence. A single bus fare is ¥210.
