What are the opening hours and admission fees for Former Takano Family Residence Kanzo Yashiki?

Former Takano Family Residence Kanzo Yashiki is typically open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM with admission fees around 300-500 yen for adults. Hours may vary seasonally, so check the official website before visiting this historic Japanese residence.

How do I get to Former Takano Family Residence Kanzo Yashiki by train and bus?

Access Former Takano Family Residence Kanzo Yashiki via local train stations and connecting buses. The nearest station is typically within walking distance or a short bus ride. Check local transportation schedules and consider purchasing a day pass for convenient travel to this traditional Japanese house.

What can I see inside Former Takano Family Residence Kanzo Yashiki?

Former Takano Family Residence Kanzo Yashiki showcases traditional Japanese architecture, period furniture, historical artifacts, and beautiful gardens. Visitors can explore tatami rooms, wooden structures, cultural exhibits, and learn about the Takano family's historical significance in Japanese society.

Is photography allowed at Former Takano Family Residence Kanzo Yashiki?

Photography policies at Former Takano Family Residence Kanzo Yashiki vary by area. Generally, exterior and garden photography is permitted, while interior photography may be restricted. Always ask staff about current photography rules and respect cultural heritage preservation guidelines.

What is the best time to visit Former Takano Family Residence Kanzo Yashiki?

The best time to visit Former Takano Family Residence Kanzo Yashiki is during spring (cherry blossom season) and autumn (fall foliage) for beautiful garden views. Early morning visits offer fewer crowds and better lighting for photography of this historic Japanese residence.

Yamanashi

Former Takano Family Residence Kanzo Yashiki, Koshu

4.1 (346)Historical LandmarkTourist AttractionHistorical PlacePoint Of InterestEstablishment

The Former Takano Family Residence is Built in the early nineteenth century, this historic mansion belonged to the wealthy Takano family and served as the center of Japan's licorice production during the Edo period (1603-1868). The name Kanzo Yashiki translates to "Licorice Mansion," reflecting the Chinese licorice cultivation that formed the foundation of the Takano family's fortune. The Takano family were entrusted with supplying licorice to Tokugawa Yoshimune, the eighth Tokugawa shōgun, and received tax-exempt status for cultivating this valuable medicinal crop until the Meiji period.

Designated as an important cultural property of Japan, this well-preserved folk house represents exceptional Edo-period residential architecture. The mansion features a distinctive double-layered raised section in the middle of the south side of its gabled roof, though the original thatched roof has been replaced with copper tiles. A small licorice field on the south side of the house is believed to be the oldest licorice crop in Japan. The 240-year-old structure showcases remarkable craftsmanship with massive timber construction designed to endure centuries.

Visitors can explore the mansion's interior, which once housed multiple industries beyond licorice production. The second and third floors were historically used for silk worm cultivation and silk yarn production. The site includes eleven smaller buildings in addition to the main residence, creating a comprehensive historical complex. Seasonal exhibitions feature traditional Japanese dolls, some hundreds of years old, while special displays during certain periods include beautiful Hina doll collections.

The Former Takano Family Residence is located in Shioyama, Koshu City, Yamanashi Prefecture, directly opposite Enzan JR Station. Koshu is easily accessible from Tokyo, requiring only 90 minutes by train. Entry to the mansion requires a small maintenance fee, with exhibition entry costing 300 yen and including a commemorative postcard and color brochure. The property is now owned and operated by Koshu City following its donation by the Takano family.

Hours

Sunday: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Monday: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Thursday: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Friday: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Saturday: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Phone

+81 553-33-5910

Website

www.city.koshu.yamanashi.jp

The area

Address

1651-15 Enzankamiozo, Koshu, Yamanashi 404-0042, Japan

Hours

Sunday: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Monday: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Thursday: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Friday: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Saturday: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Phone

+81 553-33-5910

Website

www.city.koshu.yamanashi.jp

What other travelers are saying about Former Takano Family Residence Kanzo Yashiki, Koshu

Autumn trip along the Fruits Line, a visit to this historical building is a must! By train, one minute from the Enzan station. ¥310 p/p entrance fee. A small children’s library is also part of this well preserved landmark.

Celia

Nov 25, 2023

Large, beautiful old Edo Era house surrounded by other smaller old buildings conveniently located opposite Enzan JR Station. For a small fee you can enter the house and look around, including the loft upstairs which is full of fascinating old objects. If you visit around Hinamatsuri (March 3rd) there is a wonderful display of traditional dolls, and in autumn there are colorful strings of orange persimmons drying everywhere. You can also hire bicycles here to explore the area more thoroughly. I've visited here 3 times, and I love this place!

Cathy Cawood

May 9, 2017

Very beautiful historical buildings. Part of building is public library. Respect locals and follow rules when you take a look and walk around. Parking is available. Some season, they have festivals, it's cool.

よしのさくら

Mar 12, 2018

Usually museums are closed on Mondays in Japan, but this place is closed on Tuesdays. Needles to say, we made a trip for nothing.

justin chicken

Feb 7, 2023

This mansion is located in front of the station, and in the late Edo period, it seems that licorice, which has medicinal properties, was cultivated to supply the shogunate. Parking is available. Admission is paid at the entrance to the mansion. It was 310 yen per adult. A volunteer gave us an explanation, which helped us understand the site better. After climbing the steep staircase to the second floor, we found sericulture tools and tableware used during the Edo period. Licorice is still planted in the garden, as well as fruits such as persimmons and quince. We took our time looking around, so it took us an hour, but if you just take your time, it should take about 10 minutes.