[Return] [Home]

    Trip to Yamaguchi (2003-9)

Yamaguchi Prefecture is where I was born and raised. We, together with my mother-in -law, went to Yamaguchi to see my relatives. We toured several cities on this occasion. Some places were new to me, so I enjoyed and learned a little history from this trip.

Hagi

Hagi is famous for pottery industry. The unique pottery is called Hagi-yaki and features fine cracks on the grazed surfaces. It is also the place where many patriotic samurai warriors, who played major roles in Meiji revolution, emerged. Syouin Yoshida; the great thinker and educator, Hirobumi Ito, the first Prime Minister of Meiji era, are among them. The houses and streets are as they were in more than 200 years ago.


White walls of Warriors' Residences


Takayoshi Kido's Residence on the right

 
Takayoshi Kido dressed in western style, an old pine tree in the garden


Autumn is here


The entrance to the residence of Kiku-ya; the wealthy merchant who supported the local Lord. This building is registered as a historic building of Japan.The complex includes the main house, several warehouses and a garden behind this simple entrance.


The garden of Kiku-ya. This house was used as a guest house for the Inspectors from the Central Edo Government. The merchant went to great length to ensure nothing can be blamed by the Inspectors. The guest room was taken down and rebuilt each time the new Inspectors came.
Since the Edo government did not want the local Load to become stronger, this extravaganza which forced the local Lord to spend a lot of money suited their purposes. (Panoramic View)


Outside wall of Kiku-ya (Left)


The mountain is former site of Hagi castle. At Meiji revolution, the new government ordered to destroy all castles in Japan, except one for each Prefecture.

<<Return  Next>>