MieFood

Leisurely Stroll Through Stone-Paved Historic Samurai Residences and Capture Retro Photos

About this spot

A street lined with traditional samurai residences featuring makaki hedges and long-house architecture on both sides of stone-paved streets continuing from the rear gate of Matsusaka Castle. This "living samurai residence" community, where Kii domain samurai lived to guard the castle in the late Edo period, remains an extraordinarily rare national treasure as a National Historic Site where descendants still actually reside today. The landscape of stone pavement, green makaki hedges, and wooden fences is reminiscent of a period drama film set—every angle is photogenic. One house at the north end of the western wing offers free public access to view the austere and dignified lifestyle of the samurai. Just a short walk from the castle ruins, this makes the perfect conclusion to your morning town exploration—don't forget a three-generation group photo here.

Tips

Located about 3 minutes' walk from the rear gate (karateguchi) of Matsusaka Castle; exploring it together with the castle is the standard route. Since residents still live here, avoid entering restricted areas and observe quietly. The open house is free to view. The stone-paved street is flat and easy to navigate with a stroller, and morning light beautifully illuminates the pavement and hedges—ideal for photography.