Kanzo Yashiki: A Glimpse into Edo-Era Life

Kanzo Yashiki, meaning "Licorice Mansion," offers a captivating journey into Japan's Edo period. This well-preserved estate once belonged to the Takano family, who were prominent figures in the village of Kamiozo-mura and supplied licorice, a key ingredient in traditional Chinese medicine and a sweetener, directly to the central government. The small licorice field on the south side of the house is believed to be the oldest licorice crop in Japan. Stepping into Kanzo Yashiki is like stepping back in time. The main building, along with its attached buildings and surrounding lot, has been designated as an Important Cultural Property, representing a typical folk house of the eastern Kofu Basin. While the original thatched roof has been replaced with copper tiles for preservation, the distinctive two-tiered raised section, called Kebudashi, in the middle of the gabled roof remains a characteristic feature of Koshu-region houses. Inside, you'll find an entrance room with an earthen floor, a large main room with tatami mats and a traditional wood-fired hearth, and a central wooden pillar supporting the entire structure. Explore the grounds to discover other period buildings, including a children's library and a warehouse for documents and books. Depending on the time of year, you might witness seasonal displays, such as the colorful Hina Doll Decoration and Peach Blossom Festival held between February and April, or the drying of orange persimmons in autumn. The second floor of the main house was once used for raising silkworms, a major industry in the Yamanashi area.