Aizu Bukeyashiki

Aizu Bukeyashiki is a reconstructed samurai residence in Aizu-Wakamatsu, Fukushima Prefecture, that served as the home of Saigo Tanomo, the chief retainer of the Aizu clan. The original complex was destroyed during the Boshin War in 1868, a civil conflict that marked the end of samurai rule in Japan, but was faithfully reconstructed and completed in 1975 using original drawings and documents. The Aizu clan famously supported the Tokugawa shogunate during this final conflict, making the region one of the last strongholds of feudal Japan.

The residence features 38 rooms spread across nearly 8,000 square meters, reflecting the significant authority and status of its former inhabitants. The complex includes gardens, guest rooms, a tea house, an archery range, and a rice mill. Throughout the residence, period mannequins depict scenes of daily samurai life and dramatic historical moments, including poignant displays of the family's tragic fate during the war. The grounds also contain a magistrate's office designated as an Important Cultural Asset of Fukushima Prefecture.

Visitors can explore the expansive estate to understand how high-ranking samurai families lived during the Edo period, with rooms furnished according to their original appearance. The site functions as an open-air museum where guests can experience traditional Japanese architecture and learn about Aizu's warrior heritage. The complex includes workshops where visitors can paint traditional Aizu crafts such as akabeko (red cow figurines) and practice Japanese archery. An onsite restaurant serves local Aizu cuisine, and souvenir shops offer regional specialty products.

Admission costs ¥850 for adults, ¥550 for high school and junior high students, and ¥450 for elementary school students. The Aizu Loop Bus (Haikara-san or Akabe routes) stops at "Aizu Bukeyashiki-mae" bus stop, approximately 35 minutes from Aizu-Wakamatsu Station. By car, the site is approximately 15 minutes from the Aizu-Wakamatsu IC on the Ban-etsu Expressway. The residence is located near Higashiyama Onsen hot spring resort area, making it convenient to combine cultural exploration with relaxation.