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Kanzo Yashiki: A Glimpse into Edo-Era Life

Step back in time at Kanzo Yashiki, a preserved Edo-era mansion showcasing traditional Japanese life and the history of licorice cultivation in Yamanashi.

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Kanzo Yashiki, or Licorice Mansion, is a preserved Edo-period home in Koshu, Yamanashi, once belonging to the wealthy Takano family, who profited from cultivating licorice for medicinal purposes. Visitors can explore the historic buildings and gardens, stepping back in time to experience traditional Japanese life.

A brief summary to Kanzo Yashiki

  • Monday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Friday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-4:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the Hina Doll Decoration and Peach Blossom Festival (February-April) for colorful displays of traditional dolls.
  • Check out the small licorice field, believed to be the oldest in Japan.
  • Explore the grounds beyond the main house to see other period buildings, including a library.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Kanzo Yashiki is located approximately 2.4km from JR Enzan Station. From the station's main exit, walk straight, heading east along the main road (Route 34). After about 1.5km, you'll see a large intersection. Continue straight. Kanzo Yashiki will be on your left after another 900m. The walk takes approximately 30-40 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    From JR Enzan Station, take a Koshu City bus bound for 'Kamiozo'. Get off at the 'Kanzo Yashiki' bus stop, which is right in front of the entrance. The bus ride is approximately 10 minutes. Buses are infrequent, so check the timetable in advance. A single fare costs around ¥200-300.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available at JR Enzan Station. A taxi ride to Kanzo Yashiki takes about 5-10 minutes and costs approximately ¥1,000-¥1,500. This is the most convenient option if you have limited time or are traveling with luggage.

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Discover more about Kanzo Yashiki

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.

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