Aizu Bukeyashiki (Aizu Samurai District)

Overview

Aizu Bukeyashiki is a meticulously reconstructed residence of Saigo Yorimoto, a chief retainer of the Aizu clan, which was destroyed by fire during the Boshin War. The expansive 7,000-tsubo (approximately 23,000 square meter) site features numerous buildings that offer a glimpse into the lives and culture of the time, allowing visitors to imagine what life in the Aizu domain was like. The chief retainer's residence itself is a magnificent structure built with keyaki (Zelkova serrata), hinoki (Japanese cypress), and sugi (Japanese cedar) wood. Its 38 rooms showcase the opulent lifestyle of the time. The residence is divided into sections: the formal reception hall for receiving the feudal lord and high-ranking officials; the areas for administrative work and security; the family's living quarters; and the quarters for maids and servants. Each room features period furnishings and dolls that evoke the atmosphere of daily life. For example, the "Okui no Ma," Saigo Yorimoto's bedroom, contains dolls representing his wife and children, offering a glimpse into family life. The most prestigious "Onari Goten" (formal reception hall) features a tableau of dolls depicting Saigo Yorimoto welcoming the feudal lord, Matsudaira Katamori, showcasing the splendor of the era. In addition to the chief retainer's residence, visitors can explore the Aizu Historical Museum, the clan rice-milling facility, and the former Nakabata Jin'ya (administrative office). The Aizu Historical Museum exhibits materials related to the history and culture of the Aizu clan, including displays on the Jisshin-kan (Aizu clan school), the "Jittoku no Oki-tate" (Ten Articles of the Aizu Clan's Rules), and wax figures depicting the suicide of Saigo Yorimoto's daughter and Oyama Sute-matsu, Japan's first female exchange student. The clan rice-milling facility, a reconstruction of the largest rice mill in Tohoku during its time (used by the Shirakawa clan), showcases a 4-meter diameter water wheel that, even today, is powered solely by water, capable of milling 16 koku (approximately 3 tons) of rice per day in its heyday. The former Nakabata Jin'ya, a relocated Edo-era magistrate's office from Nakabata village (present-day Nakabata, Yabuuchi-machi, Nishishirakawa District), is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Fukushima Prefecture. The grounds also include souvenir shops and a restaurant, making it a place you can enjoy all day. The souvenir shop "Go-kobo Kokon" offers traditional Aizu crafts, local sake, and regional products. The restaurant "Kyoyotei" offers seasonal menus featuring Aizu local cuisine. Aizu Bukeyashiki is a precious place where you can experience the history and culture of Aizu. It's recommended for history buffs and families alike.