Genkosha
Genkosha was constructed in 1847 by Kanamori Tokusui, a senior retainer (karo, 家老) serving of the Kuno clan. Tokusui was renowned as both a senior retainer and a distinguished tea master of the Omotesenke school. He built Genkosha as a villa-style residence with a tea house in the Sukiya-zukuri styl
Background
Genkosha was constructed in 1847 by Kanamori Tokusui, a senior retainer (karo, 家老) serving of the Kuno clan. Tokusui was renowned as both a senior retainer and a distinguished tea master of the Omotesenke school. He built Genkosha as a villa-style residence with a tea house in the Sukiya-zukuri style.
Although intended as a cultural retreat, the building retains living quarters including features characteristic of a samurai residence, including weapon racks (武具掛け), reflecting Tokusui’s dual role as warrior and cultured retainer.
Features • Tea Rooms: Large and small tea chambers with alcoves, a preparation room, and tea garden. • Residence Wing: Living quarters used as a villa for Tokusui and his family. • Garden: Restored in 2019 to its Edo-period layout, including stone lanterns, stepping stones, and borrowed scenery.
Genkosha was designated a Town Cultural Property in 2013 and underwent extensive restoration between 2015–2019. Since 2020, it has been open to the public for tours and cultural activities. It also serves as an important complement to Tamaru Castle ruins. The restaurant next door is also one of the best places in town to get lunch after walking teh castle ruins or waiting for the next train.
| 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 |
| 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 |
