Goyobanyashiki (Castle Guard Residences)

Overview

Goyobanyashiki are the remains of the residences of the samurai who guarded Matsusaka Castle, and are designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan. Matsusaka was an outlying territory of the Kishu Domain, so the lord didn't reside there. Until the late Edo period, a local governor was stationed, and afterwards, 20 samurai served as castle guards, managing Matsusaka Castle. Goyobanyashiki were newly constructed in 1863 (Bunkyu 3) in the third bailey of Matsusaka Castle to house the samurai and their families. There were 19 buildings in total. While their descendants still live in many of them, one building is open to the public. The open-to-the-public long house (nagaya) is remarkably well-preserved, allowing visitors to imagine daily life at the time. The earthen floor (doma), sunken hearth (irori), and period furniture remain, offering a glimpse into the lives of those who lived there. Furthermore, within the Goyobanyashiki grounds, you'll find remaining storehouses and a shrine, providing a deeper understanding of life in the Edo period. If you visit Matsusaka Castle, be sure to visit Goyobanyashiki as well.