Shizutani School, Historic school site in Bizen, Japan.
Description
Shizutani School is a historic educational complex in Bizen designated as both a National Treasure and Special Historic Site. The main auditorium spans roughly 19 by 16 meters and was built using zelkova, cedar, and camphor wood.
History
Lord Ikeda Mitsumasa commissioned Tsuda Nagatada to establish this institution in 1673, creating one of the first schools to accept ordinary citizens. The initiative marked the beginning of public education opportunities beyond the nobility in this part of the country.
Culture
The roof uses a traditional hip-and-gable structure, while the tiles are made from Bizen ceramic using techniques that local potters have practiced since medieval times. These tiles were fired specifically for this building and reflect the region's handcraft tradition.
Practical
The site remains open year-round and allows visitors to walk through the preserved structures. Programs offer insight into local history and the development of education in the region.
Did you know?
A separate chamber within the main hall once served as a resting place for Lord Ikeda during his visits. This area shows the direct connection between the ruling nobility and the progress of the educational institution.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Bizen).
Okayama International Circuit
13 km
Akō Castle
16.6 km
Wake Shrine
4.7 km
Bizen Osafune Sword Museum
13.3 km
Tenjinyama Castle
10.3 km
Kagaku-ji
16.4 kmHyōgo prefectural Akō Seaside Park
17.7 km
Bizen Latin America Museum
8.5 km
Chōfuku-ji
15.6 km
岡山県自然保護センター
16.7 km
Harbor View Park
9 km
Fukushō-ji
9.2 km
Akō Marine Science Museum
17.8 km
Ako City Museum of History
16.6 km
Shōraku-ji
5.3 km
Former Okuni Residence
5.8 km
Shizutani School History Museum
158 m
Shinkō-ji
6.9 km
FAN Museum
7.4 km
Ako City Library
17 km
Ako Folk Culture Museum
15.8 km
Bizen City Museum of History
6.1 km
Chonichi-ji
15.2 km
Wake Museum of History and Folk Materials
4.7 km
Yoshii Folk Museum
17.8 km
Kōken-ji
13.8 km
Auditorium, Shizutani school
172 m
閑谷学校資料館
159 mDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes