Yagyu Karo Yashiki
This was the residence of the karō (chief retainer) of the Yagyū Domain. Oyamada Shurei, chief retainer of the Yagyū, was awarded the plot of land for his efforts in reforming the domain’s finances. The stone walls were constructed in 1841 by a mason from Owari, and the garden was laid out by the no
Background
This was the residence of the karō (chief retainer) of the Yagyū Domain. Oyamada Shurei, chief retainer of the Yagyū, was awarded the plot of land for his efforts in reforming the domain’s finances. The stone walls were constructed in 1841 by a mason from Owari, and the garden was laid out by the noted tea ceremony master Kizu Rosen. The residence includes a nagayamon gate, earthen walls, and a garden. It is a beautifully preserved an example of the lifestyle of a high-ranking retainer in a small rural domain.
In 1964, the house came into the possession of writer Yamaoka Sōhachi. It is said that the concept for the NHK historical drama Spring Slope (Haru no Saka), featuring Yagyū Munenori, was written here. After Yamaoka’s death, the property was donated to Nara City. Today it is maintained as a museum, with displays on the Yagyū clan and Edo-period samurai culture.
| Yagyu Karo Residence Profile | |
|---|---|
| English Name | Yagyu Karo Residence |
| Japanese Name | 旧柳生藩家老屋敷 |
| Year | Mid Edo Period (17th–18th century) |
| Residence Type | Upper Class |
| Designations | Local Historic Site |
| Features | Gates, Garden, House |
| Visitor Information | 9am - 5pm (closed for New Year's holidays); 350 yen admission |
| Website | https://www.city.nara.lg.jp/site/yagyuu/ |
| Location | Nara, Nara Prefecture |
| Castle | 0 |
| Coordinates | 34.7348, 135.9892 |
| 0 and nearby Samurai Homes | |
| Admin | |
| Visits | February 11, 2025 |
| Added Jcastle | 2025 |
| Contributor | Eric |
