Heike Yashiki Museum of Folklore: A Journey into Iya's Past

Discover the captivating history of the Heike Yashiki Museum of Folklore, a tangible cultural property of Miyoshi City. This museum is located in a traditional Japanese house that once belonged to the descendants of Horikawa Naiki, a physician who served Emperor Antoku and fled to the Iya Valley with the Heike clan after their defeat in the late 12th century. The main house, constructed in 1867, features a gassho-zukuri style with a thatched roof, and it has been preserved to maintain its original state. Inside, you'll find a collection of antiques, old documents, armor, flags, and tools that offer insights into the daily life and history of the Iya people. A traditional irori floor hearth is lit daily, providing visitors with a glimpse into the past. The museum is set within a beautiful garden with flowering trees, including some that are said to be 800 years old, dating back to the time when the Heike clan settled in the area. The garden also offers views of the Oboke Gorge and the surrounding mountains. The kura (fire-resistant storage warehouse), a rare sight in the Iya Valley, stands next to the main house. Visiting the Heike Yashiki Museum of Folklore is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the history and culture of the Iya Valley, and to appreciate the beauty of the surrounding nature.