Yoshōkan, Historic samurai residence in Obi, Japan
Yoshokan is a traditional Japanese manor made from local Obi cedar wood, featuring multiple rooms arranged around carefully tended gardens. The structure displays typical features of a wealthy samurai residence with deep interior spaces and a thoughtful floor plan.
Built in 1868 after the departure from Obi Castle, the house served as the main residence for the Ito family during the Meiji period transition. This timing marked a shift from feudal military life to a new civilian era for the family.
The rooms inside reveal how samurai families organized their living spaces according to rank and status within the household. You can see how different areas were used for receiving guests, family life, and private moments, showing what mattered to people living here.
The residence is located on Ote-mon Street and welcomes visitors during operating hours throughout the week. Plan enough time to walk through both the interior rooms and the gardens at a comfortable pace.
The building was constructed entirely from local Obi cedar, a wood prized for its structural strength and durability. This choice of material has allowed the house to maintain its integrity and form for over 150 years.
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