Aoki Shusuke Residence
Aoki Shūsuke was born into a family of domain physicians serving the Chōshū Domain. He began his medical studies under Nōmi Tōan, a respected domain doctor specializing in Chinese medicine, before continuing his education in Edo and Nagasaki, where he was introduced to Dutch medicine and Western sci
Background
Aoki Shūsuke was born into a family of domain physicians serving the Chōshū Domain. He began his medical studies under Nōmi Tōan, a respected domain doctor specializing in Chinese medicine, before continuing his education in Edo and Nagasaki, where he was introduced to Dutch medicine and Western scientific practices. Upon returning to Hagi, he was appointed Domain Physician to Mōri Takachika, the daimyō of Chōshū.
Although not of samurai birth, Aoki was accorded privileges of a samurai and his residence is listed as a samurai residence on contemporary Hagi maps. His expertise in both Chinese and Western medicine made him a key figure in modernizing healthcare in Chōshū, and he was instrumental in establishing one of Japan’s first systematic smallpox vaccination programs. In 1859, he expanded his residence in Hagi to accommodate medical students from across Japan, turning it into a center for medical education.
While Hagi is widely recognized for its role in Japan’s industrial modernization, Aoki’s work reflects how the Mōri clan valued modern learning in all fields, including medicine (see also Bakumatsu). His influence shaped a new generation of physicians, accelerating the adoption of Western medical practices in Japan. His brother was also a distinguished physician, and his adopted son, Aoki Shūzō, later became a diplomat who strengthened Japan’s medical and scientific ties with Germany.
| Aoki Shusuke Residence Profile | |
|---|---|
| English Name | Aoki Shusuke Residence |
| Japanese Name | 青木周弼旧宅 |
| Year | Edo Period |
| Residence Type | Middle Class |
| Features | House |
| Visitor Information | 100 yen, open daily 9:00-17:00 |
| Website | https://www.hagishi.com/en/search/detail.php?d=100032 |
| Location | Hagi, Yamaguchi Prefecture |
| Castle | Hagi Castle |
| Coordinates | 34.41171, 131.39458 |
| Hagi Castle and nearby Samurai Homes | |
|
|
|
| Admin | |
| Visits | March 22, 2024 |
| Added Jcastle | 2025 |
| Contributor | Eric |
