Catch a glimpse of Kanazawa’s samurai life
Southwest of Kanazawa Castle, lies the Nagamachi Samurai District, a neighborhood where the samurai of the powerful Maeda clan—the rulers of Kanazawa and the old Kaga Domain—once lived. This district offers visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and immerse themselves in the lifestyle of the samurai during the Edo period (1603-1867). With its well-preserved houses, narrow atmospheric streets, and beautiful views of Kanazawa’s oldest cistern, the Nagamachi Samurai District is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and culture lovers.
One of the highlights of the Nagamachi Samurai District is the opportunity to visit an archetypal samurai house. These traditional residences, known as bukeyashiki, were where samurai and their families lived during the Edo period. Walking through the district, visitors can admire the carefully preserved houses surrounded by earthen walls. The picturesque narrow lanes and small canals add to the charm and historical atmosphere of the neighborhood.
One particular samurai house that stands out is the Nomura house, or Nomurake. This Edo period mansion belonged to a prosperous samurai and offers a glimpse into the life of the samurai elite. The house has a lovely inner garden that is meticulously landscaped and tended, serving as a work of art and the highlight of a visit. Visitors can view the garden from different angles from many of the rooms inside the house. The Nomura house has been carefully restored and is open to the public for a small fee, allowing visitors to experience the grandeur and elegance of samurai living.
The Nagamachi Samurai District also offers insights into merchant life during the Edo period. A five-minute walk south of the Nomura house is the Shinise Kinenkan Museum, a restored merchant’s pharmacy that served the samurai living in the area. At the museum, visitors can learn about the lives of the merchant class and see local Kanazawa crafts on display. For those interested in samurai history, a visit to the Maeda Tosanokamike Shiryokan is recommended. Located five minutes south of the Nomura house, this museum showcases samurai armor and relics of the Maeda clan, providing a deeper understanding of the region’s feudal history.
While exploring the Nagamachi Samurai District, visitors should also take the time to explore the other small museums, shops, and restaurants spread throughout the area. These establishments offer additional insights into the district’s history and provide opportunities to purchase traditional crafts and sample local cuisine. The district’s charm is further enhanced during the winter months when visitors can witness the unique sight of earthen walls covered with straw for protection, similar to how the trees in Kenrokuen Garden are protected with rope.
For those interested in further exploring the area, the Kaga Yuzenkan is located nearby and stands on the site of a former samurai house. Here, visitors can observe artists painting designs on silk using traditional techniques, gaining an appreciation for the craftsmanship and artistry of the region. Additionally, Kanazawa Castle, Kenrokuen Garden, and Oyama-jinja Shrine, where the remains of feudal lord Maeda Toshiie are entombed, are all within easy walking distance from the Nagamachi Samurai District.
To reach the Nagamachi Samurai District, visitors can take a 10-minute walk from the Ishikawa gate of Kanazawa Castle. Alternatively, both the Kanazawa loop bus and JR buses stop at Korinbo, which is a five-minute walk from Nagamachi. This convenient accessibility allows visitors to easily explore the district and make the most of their time in Kanazawa.
In conclusion, the Nagamachi Samurai District in Kanazawa offers a fascinating glimpse into the samurai life during the Edo period. With its well-preserved houses, atmospheric streets, and historical charm, this neighborhood is a treasure trove of cultural and historical experiences. Whether it’s exploring the bukeyashiki residences, visiting the Nomura house, learning about merchant life at the Shinise Kinenkan Museum, or simply strolling through the narrow lanes, a visit to the Nagamachi Samurai District is sure to transport visitors back in time and provide a deeper understanding of Kanazawa’s rich heritage.
Alamat dan Peta Lokasi :
Naga-machi, Kanazawa-shi, Ishikawa-ken
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