Guide
The Former Asa Mori Family Hagi Yashiki Nagaya is a samurai residence belonging to the Asa Mori family, descendants of Motoaki, the fifth son of the legendary daimyo Mori Motonari. The family was granted land in the Asa area of present-day Sanayoshi-Onoda City following their relocation to Hagi. While the estate once spanned a vast 15,500 square meters, much of it was dismantled during the Meiji Restoration. Today, only this magnificent 'Nagaya' (long house), built in 1856 (Ansei 3), remains. It is recognized as one of the largest surviving samurai structures in Hagi and is officially designated as a National Important Cultural Property.
The Asa Mori family played a vital role in the history of the Mori clan. This residence dates back to the late Edo period (1856), serving as a precious relic that illustrates the social structures and lifestyles of the samurai era. Once part of a sprawling estate, it helped shape the local history of the region. Today, the building is carefully preserved and managed as a cultural asset to pass down traditional Japanese architectural styles to future generations.
The most striking feature is its massive scale: a long, elegant 'Irimoya' style (hip-and-gable) roof structure with a length of 51.5 meters and a width of 5 meters. The interior is divided into five distinct sections, notably lacking a 'doma' (earthen floor) in many parts. The eastern section features a highly prestigious design with tatami-matted corridors, believed to have served as a formal reception area for high-ranking individuals. Visitors can observe the intricate architectural details and the spatial organization that defined the lives of the samurai class.
In the scenic landscape of Hagi, the residence displays different charms throughout the seasons. During the bright daylight of spring, summer, or autumn, the textures of the wood and tatami mats are most vivid, making it an ideal time to appreciate the architectural craftsmanship. Observing how the light hits the structure at different times of the day provides a deeper understanding of how this historical building once sat within its natural environment.
Visitors can closely examine the advanced construction techniques of the late Edo period. The space is a living museum of traditional Japanese residential design, from the sophisticated tatami-matted hallways to the grand hip-and-gable roof structure. It offers a profound connection to the formal atmosphere and architectural dignity of the samurai class.
The site is surrounded by numerous historical landmarks, including the Hagi Castle Ruins, Tsukigetsu Park, the Hagi Ware Museum, and the Tenju-in Cemetery. To explore these sites efficiently, consider purchasing a common ticket that covers multiple locations. Nearby facilities also allow you to dive deeper into the history of Hagi-yaki (Hagi pottery).
As the interior features tatami mats, you will be required to remove your shoes before entering. We highly recommend wearing clean socks. To protect this Important Cultural Property, please refrain from eating or drinking inside, and be mindful of photography restrictions in certain areas. Payment can be made in cash or via the Hagi City Cultural Facility 1-day pass. While English-language support is limited, following local etiquette will ensure a respectful visit to this historical treasure.