Peek into the life of lower-ranking samurai during the Edo period at this thatched-roof samurai residence
About this spot
A thatched-roof samurai residence located on Otoshimachi Street west of Sasayama Castle ruins. Built around the Tenpō era, it was the home of an Otoshi (lower-ranking foot soldier) samurai; the Anma family earned only 12 koku and provisions for 3 dependents—typical of lower-ranking samurai. The thatched main house displays period tableware, furniture, and old documents, poignantly conveying the unpretentious, austere lifestyle of the samurai. From the sitting room, a view of a small garden features a suikinkutsu (underground water sound device), and you might pause to listen to its clear, resonant tones. Along the street, several thatched samurai residences still stand with their original facades, and a leisurely walk past their gates will make you feel as though you've stepped back into the Edo period. Just a short walk (a few minutes on foot) from Sasayama Castle's Great Hall, this museum fits naturally into your castle town exploration route.
Tips
About a 5-minute walk west from Sasayama Castle ruins, located along Otoshimachi Street. General admission is 200 yen, but if you plan to visit multiple sites including the Great Hall, the 4-facility combined ticket (600 yen) is more economical. Inside, you must remove your shoes before entering—it's a traditional structure. Closed Mondays (or the following day if Monday is a holiday). Many of the thatched residences along the street are private homes where people still live, so it's courteous to photograph exteriors discreetly.
Best time to visit
Allow about 45 minutes. It's best to visit in the morning before tourist crowds arrive, so you can quietly appreciate the residence at a leisurely pace.
Access & map
95 Nishi-shin-cho, Tamba Sasayama, Hyogo 669-2334
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