Tōju Shoin, Edo period private school in Takashima, Japan.
Tōju Shoin is an Edo-period school building in Takashima that combines traditional Japanese architecture with spaces designed for study and teaching. The structure shows typical features of the era, including wooden elements and learning areas arranged to support the educational methods of that time.
Nakae Tōju founded this school in 1648 as a place where samurai families could study Confucian philosophy and ethics. The institution became an important center for spreading these teachings throughout Japanese society during the Edo period.
The school became known for spreading Confucian thought that shaped how samurai families and scholars approached learning and morality. Visitors can see today how these ideas were reflected in the design and arrangement of the teaching spaces.
The site is accessible on foot in a short time from Adogawa Station on the JR Kosei Line and offers regular visits for guests. Wearing comfortable shoes is helpful, and it is worth checking opening times in advance since guided tours have set times.
A large wisteria tree once grew behind the original building, giving students an unusual reason to call their teacher Nakae 'Mr. Wisteria.' This tree became a memorable part of the place for a long time.
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