Former Yamauchi Family Lower Residence Long House

Overview

The Former Yamauchi Family Lower Residence Long House is a historically significant building designated as a Nationally Important Cultural Property located in Kochi City, Kochi Prefecture. Built in 1866 (Genji era) during the late Edo period, this long house was constructed within the samurai residences built on land commandeered from seven samurai residences as part of the lower residence of Yamauchi Yodo, the 15th lord of the Tosa domain. It housed numerous ashigaru (foot soldiers) who guarded the estate. The lower residence was expanded during the Meiji period and served as the Yamauchi family's main residence. However, it was sold after the war, and the site is now occupied by the Hotel Sansuien. Currently, in addition to the long house, the gate and a lookout tower remain. The lookout tower is famous as the place where Yodo and Saigo Takamori met in February 1867 (Keio 3). Preserved as part of the Hotel Sansuien's grounds, the long house was transferred to Kochi City in 1978. Apparently, Takajo Park and the parking lot adjacent to the hotel are on the site of the southern part of the Yamauchi lower residence. The exhibition hall showcases precious materials, including a landscape screen painted by Haruki Nanmei, a flower vase from Nochayama-yaki pottery, furniture and household goods from the late Edo and Meiji periods, and models of Japanese boats, such as the Tosa domain ship, Yugao-maru. This is a valuable place to learn about the lives of ashigaru in those days, and the history and culture of the Tosa domain. We encourage you to visit. Nearby attractions include Kochi Castle, Kagami River, Hifumiyama Park (the burial place of successive Yamauchi family members), Yamauchi Shrine, Tosa Yamauchi Family Treasures and Materials Museum, and Kochi City Ryoma's Birthplace Memorial Hall. Exploring these sites along with the long house provides a deeper appreciation for Kochi's history and culture.