Ichijodani Asakura Clan Historic Ruins

Ichijodani Asakura Clan Historic Ruins is a huge site of ruins that stretches approximately 10 km from east to south. The houses, temples, and roads within the site remain in good condition. The ruins remaining in this good condition is rare in Japan and it has been nationally designated as a Special Historic Site and a Special Place of Scenic Beauty. These historic ruins are the remains of the castle town of Asakura clan that controlled this area for about 100 years from the late 13th century. It was destroyed by Oda Nobunaga in 1573 and has been buried under ground since then for over 400 years. It was discovered during research in 1967.

(Source: たかさんのマイペース)

Asakura Yakata-ato (Ruins of the Asakura Residence）

Asakura Yakata-ato still has a magnificent Chinese-style gate that serves as a symbol of the site. The extensive site area shows the power of the Asakura clan. The northern part of the site is said to be used as a residence space while the southern part as the reception. The flower bed at the south of the site is believed to be the oldest flower bed ruin in Japan.

(Source: barman / PIXTA(ピクスタ))

Yudonoato Garden

It seems like rocks are scattered randomly at Yudonoato Garden. Actually, they are part of a meticulously planned garden in the style called Ishigumi that places natural stones strategically for viewing. This garden lined with jutting rough stones shows the spirit of Busho (Japanese Military Commanders) who lived during the wild times of the Sengoku period.

(Source: 国道をゆく)

Suwa Yakataato Garden (The Garden at Ruins of the Suwa Residence)

Suwa Yakataato Garden is the garden that the fifth lord of Asakura clan made for his wife. It is said to be the most elegant site in the whole ruins. The stones in the garden are placed low and are round, completely in contrast to Yudonoato Garden. Before this site was excavated, neighbors thought it was a graveyard because only Tateishi, the rock with the list of family head names carved on could be seen above the ground.

(Source: naoya / PIXTA(ピクスタ) )

Town Reconstructed to Show Life in Old Times

The center of the town has samurai residences and merchants’ residences reconstructed to show life in old times. Look inside the residences and you will learn how people of each rank lived in those days. You can experience wearing costumes. It can be reserved on the day. Enjoy strolling around in the atmosphere of old times for 20 minutes and take pictures in costumes.