Yoshida Shoin's Former Confinement Residence (Sugie Old House)

Overview

Yoshida Shoin's Former Confinement Residence (Sugie Old House) in Tsubakihigashi, Hagi City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, is the birthplace of Yoshida Shoin, a prominent figure of the late Edo period (Bakumatsu). Shoin moved to this house in 1853 and, the following year, following the arrival of the Black Ships, plotted a secret voyage to a foreign country. Confined in this house, Shoin was later executed, but his ideals significantly impacted Japan's subsequent modernization. The Sugie Old House offers a precious glimpse into Shoin's life, preserving aspects of his time there. The site includes the room where he was confined and his study where he pursued his studies. Exhibits of Shoin's belongings and documents offer further insight into his life and beliefs. Shoin, after his confinement in this house, became a figure who profoundly influenced Japan's modernization. His ideology significantly impacted the modernization of Japan. Shoin, after his confinement in this house, became a figure who profoundly influenced Japan's modernization. Shoin, after his confinement in this house, became a figure who profoundly influenced Japan's modernization.