Former Higuchi Family Residence

Overview

Located southeast of Matsushiro Castle, near the main gate (Otemmon) and the Shin-goten (Sanada residence), this area was a samurai district where many high-ranking samurai lived. The Higuchi family held a central position within this district and served as inspectors for the domain. The main house, storehouse, row house, shrine to the household deity, main gate, earthen walls, and wooden walls have been restored and landscaped. Three structures—the main house, storehouse, and row house—are designated as cultural properties (buildings) of Nagano City. An irrigation channel flows east-west through the center of the property, and a grove of mixed trees, bamboo forest, and garden south of the pond were used as fields during the Edo period. Including the buildings, garden, and irrigation channel, the property well conveys the lifestyle of a high-ranking samurai family of the Matsushiro domain. Currently, it is managed and operated by the NPO Yumekuukan Matsushiro no Machi to Kokoro o Sodateru Kai, frequently hosting exhibitions and hands-on events. Be sure to visit after exploring Matsushiro Castle and the Sanada residence!