A Nationally Designated Preservation District
This group of samurai residences was built around Kiyoshiki Castle, which was considered the best mountain castle of the Satsuma Domain. Some well-preserved sections of the stone walls remain. The current townscape was built in the Edo period, and most of the sites of the old residences are now home to modern private houses. However, when you look into each site from the gate, you can see some remnants of the past, including the curved approach to the entrance and the old stone storehouses.
The Iriki-Fumoto Samurai Residences are important historic sites that give an insight into life in samurai times. Perhaps most significant is the Masuda Samurai Residence. It was built in 1873 and consists of two buildings connected via a walkway and outside porches, a style unique in Kagoshima Prefecture. The residence was privately owned by the Masuda family, whose ancestors were doctors to a local samurai family, until it was restored in 2010.
Other beautifully restored and maintained remains include the Kayabuki Gate, the kura (stone warehouse) and the residence border walls. Several traditional residences have been renovated into cafes where visitors can enjoy refreshments in a truly rare, historic setting. Stop by the Irki-Fumoto Tourist Information Center for tips on how to best enjoy your visit. You can also receive information there on the “Samurai Tourism” experiences and activities on offer in Iriki-Fumoto.
The Iriki-Fumoto Samurai Residences are important historic sites that give an insight into life in samurai times. Perhaps most significant is the Masuda Samurai Residence. It was built in 1873 and consists of two buildings connected via a walkway and outside porches, a style unique in Kagoshima Prefecture. The residence was privately owned by the Masuda family, whose ancestors were doctors to a local samurai family, until it was restored in 2010.
Other beautifully restored and maintained remains include the Kayabuki Gate, the kura (stone warehouse) and the residence border walls. Several traditional residences have been renovated into cafes where visitors can enjoy refreshments in a truly rare, historic setting. Stop by the Irki-Fumoto Tourist Information Center for tips on how to best enjoy your visit. You can also receive information there on the “Samurai Tourism” experiences and activities on offer in Iriki-Fumoto.
