Genkosha

Genkosha was built in 1847 by Kanamori Tokusui, a senior retainer (karo, 家老) of the Kuno clan. Tokusui was renowned not only as a high-ranking samurai but also as a distinguished tea master. He built Genkosha as a villa-style residence with an attached tea house, designed in the Sukiya-zukuri style.

Background

Genkosha was built in 1847 by Kanamori Tokusui, a senior retainer (karo, 家老) of the Kuno clan. Tokusui was renowned not only as a high-ranking samurai but also as a distinguished tea master. He built Genkosha as a villa-style residence with an attached tea house, designed in the Sukiya-zukuri style.

Although intended as a peaceful retreat, the building also retains features of a samurai residence, including living quarters with weapon racks (武具掛け)—a reminder of Tokusui’s dual role as warrior and tea master. The residence has large and small tea rooms with alcoves, a preparation room, and a tea garden. The garden was restored in 2019 to its Edo-period appearance.

Genkosha was designated a Town Cultural Property in 2013 and underwent extensive restoration between 2015 and 2019. Since 2020, it has been open to the public for tours and cultural events. It serves as an important complement to the nearby Tamaru Castle.

The restaurant next door is also one of the best places in town for lunch—perfect after exploring the castle ruins or while waiting for the next train.

Gallery

Genkosha Profile
English Name	Genkosha
Japanese Name	玄甲舎
Year	1847
Residence Type	Upper Class
Designations	Local Historic Site
Features	Garden, House, Warehouses
Visitor Information	open 9-1600; closed Tuesday; 200yen; closed 12/29-1/3
Website	https://kizuna.town.tamaki.mie.jp/bunkasports/kanko/genkosha.html
Location	Tamaki, Mie Prefecture
Castle	Tamaru Castle
Coordinates	34.48822, 136.63522
Tamaru Castle and nearby Samurai Homes
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Admin
Visits	February 23, 2025
Added Jcastle	2025
Contributor	Eric

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