OkayamaTravel

Walk Through the Samurai Residence Street with White Walls and Earthen Fences

About this spot

This section of the castle town that sprawls at the foot of Mount Gagyuu (臥牛山) retains vivid remnants of the samurai residential district where warriors once lived, and is designated as an Okayama Prefecture Furusato Village. Along the street where white walls and earthen fences continue for approximately 250 meters stand mansions with dignified gates, and just walking along it feels like stepping back in time. At the open-to-public former Orii House (旧折井家), you can view the main residence, garden, and samurai-related materials. The former Hanihara House (旧埴原家) features unusual architecture incorporating temple building styles and sukiya-style design elements. Within walking distance from Raikyu Temple, it is the core of a historical walking experience where you can feel the life of the castle town at the foot of the castle in the sky.

Tips

Strolling through the street is free, and a combined admission ticket for the former Orii House and former Hanihara House offers good value. Since you can explore on foot from Raikyu Temple, it is recommended to leave your car parked near Raikyu Temple or in a downtown parking lot. Many gate structures and fences are still active residences, so please view them quietly.

Best time to visit

Approximately 45 minutes required. In the quiet hours before midday, you can capture photos that look like you have the white-walled street all to yourself.