Guida
The Former Yuro Family Residence is a designated National Important Cultural Property located in Mogami Town, Mogami District, Yamagata Prefecture. Known as the 'House of the Fuujin,' it preserves the distinct architectural styles of the early Edo period. This residence was more than just a home; it historically served as a residence for officials, a village headman's house, and a lodging for travelers along the highway. The massive thatched-roof structure, with a length of approximately 25 meters, offers a visual window into the social roles and lifestyles of that era.
The history of this residence dates back to the early Edo period. This area was once home to officials who guarded the borders between the Sendai and Shinjo domains, giving the house its character as the 'House of the Fuujin' (the official/guardian). Furthermore, as this region was a prominent horse-breeding area, a culture of treating horses with great care was deeply rooted here.
A significant historical connection is the residence of the great poet Matsuo Basho. In 1689, during his travels, Basho stayed here with his disciple Sora. Due to bad weather, he was forced to stay for three days and two nights. It is said that during this time, he composed the verse: 'Fleas and lice, horse urine, by my pillow.' This poem vividly describes the close proximity between humans and animals in the living environment of that time.
The most striking feature is the scale and structure of the building. With a floor area of approximately 269 square meters, it serves as a precious specimen of early Edo-period construction techniques. The interior includes five rooms, such as the 'toronoma' (alcove), and features an inner courtyard and an 'uchimaya' (stable).
The layout reveals how humans and horses lived in close proximity, providing a concrete look at the lifestyle of the period. Thanks to meticulous reconstruction work, the original style has been faithfully preserved, allowing visitors to observe the detailed structural elements of a large-scale folk house from the Edo period.
The facility is open from April to November (or October). Summer and autumn are ideal times to observe the historical structure within its natural surroundings. Please note that the site is closed during the winter season (December to March). Visiting during bright daylight hours is recommended to best appreciate the texture of the thatched roof, the heavy beams, and the intricate details of the alcoves.
Visitors can learn about the functions of a village headman's residence and a traveler's inn through its actual architectural structure. You can observe the spatial configuration that reflects its history as a horse-breeding hub and contemplate the environment described in Basho's poetry. The reconstructed building also provides a deep understanding of how historical architecture is preserved and maintained.
The residence is located in Mogami Town, Yamagata Prefecture, an area characterized by beautiful historical landscapes and nature. We recommend planning your route and transportation methods in advance to ensure a smooth visit.