Experience Castle Town Charm at a Prosperous Merchant Residence on White-Walled Kikuya Yokocho
About this spot
The residence of the Kikuya family, prosperous merchants who served as official suppliers to the domain, with the main house and storehouses designated as Important Cultural Properties. Across the spacious grounds, a well-maintained garden and furnishings and artworks once belonging to the daimyo family are displayed, allowing visitors to experience firsthand the lifestyle of merchant families in the castle town. Kikuya Yokocho, stretching before the residence, is a beautiful white namako-walled alleyway selected as one of Japan's 100 Notable Streets. Nearby you'll find the birthplace of Takasugi Shinsaku and the former residence of Kido Takayoshi. Strolling these alleyways while viewing summer mikan trees beyond earthen walls is a highlight of Hagi castle town sightseeing.
Tips
The castle town area is within walking distance of nearby parking lots such as Central Park Parking. View the residence following the designated route; garden opening hours may vary seasonally. The alleyways offer little shade, so hats or parasols are recommended.
Best time to visit
Allow approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. Early afternoon light catches the white walls beautifully, ideal for photography during alleyway walks.
Access & map
〒758-0072 Hagi City, Yamaguchi Prefecture, 1-chome Gofukucho
Model course featuring this spot
Hagi: A Historical Walk Through Shoka Village School and the Castle Town with Summer Mikan
Yamaguchi
Explore features & model courses
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