Old Shizutani School

Overview

The Old Shizutani School is a former feudal domain school (han-ko) established in 1670 during the early Edo period by Ikeda Mitsumasa, the lord of Okayama. Mitsumasa placed great importance on learning and devoted considerable effort to the education of his retainers. As a facility for studying Confucianism, it played a crucial role in Japan's educational system at the time. The Old Shizutani School boasted numerous buildings spread across a vast site, including a lecture hall, Confucian temple, academy, library, and school buildings. These structures represent the pinnacle of architectural skill of that era and still retain their beauty today. The lecture hall, designated a National Treasure, is particularly renowned as a masterpiece of wooden architecture. It features a gable roof, a large entrance at the front, and rows of imposing pillars on either side. The interior features a high-ceilinged space with a lacquered floor. In addition to Confucian lectures, the Old Shizutani School also taught calligraphy, arithmetic, and martial arts such as archery. It's said that not only retainers but also ordinary people were able to study there. Today, the Old Shizutani School is preserved as a valuable historical site, including the National Treasure lecture hall and other buildings designated as Important Cultural Properties. You can sense the educational methods and architectural styles of the time, making it a fascinating place for history buffs and those interested in education alike. The grounds also include the O-nassho (Tsubakiyama), where Mitsumasa's hair is enshrined, and the remains of his study where he is said to have dedicated himself to learning. It's a place of interest for history enthusiasts and those interested in education. Be sure to visit!