Former Horikiri Residence (旧堀切邸)

Flow of the course

About this spot

A historic tourism and exchange facility created by restoring and refurbishing the former manor of the Horikiri family, a prominent farming and merchant family that has continued since the Edo period. The grounds preserve the main residence and the 'Jukken-gura' (ten-ken storehouse), said to be one of the largest storehouses in the prefecture. Displays in the storehouse and the appearance of the sitting rooms convey the lifestyle of the former wealthy family that prospered in the hot spring town. What's most popular, however, is the foot bath and hand bath set facing the garden. The foot bath draws real Iizaka hot spring water and is free to use, and because it's roofed, you can relax without worrying about the weather. As you sit side by side soaking your feet in the hot water while gazing at the garden trees, the fatigue of walking melts away. The free admission and complimentary foot and hand baths are wonderful, and this establishment is ideal for a rest stop during a hot spring town stroll.

Tips

About a 10-minute walk from Iizaka Onsen Station. Admission and foot/hand bath use are both free. Bringing your own towel for the foot bath is efficient (though towels may be provided on site). Comfortable easy-to-remove bottoms make using the foot bath more enjoyable. The building has shoe-removal areas, so wearing easy-to-slip-on shoes is convenient.

Best time to visit

Approximately 1 hour. Taking a break at the foot bath mid-morning, near the midpoint of your stroll, is perfectly timed.

Access & map

〒960-0201 Fukushima Prefecture, Fukushima City, Iizaka Town, Higashitakino-chō 16