Located near Higashiyama Onsen, this large-scale historical museum park features the restored residence of Saigo Tanomo, who was a Karo officer in the Aizu domain, surrounded by relocated and restored traditional buildings and a museum.
The Saigo Tanomo, a Karo officer's residence, is a magnificent wooden, tatami matted samurai residence with 38 rooms, including the "Onari-no-Ma" where the feudal lord was entertained and the "Okuichi-no-Ma" bedroom for the Karo officer. The house is furnished with furnishings of the time, and there is a diorama with dolls reproducing daily life and historical scenes, giving visitors a glimpse of how life was in the old days. One scene of an exhibit where the wife and others suicide with their blades during the Aizu war will bring tears to your eyes.
Many other historical buildings designated as an important cultural property have been relocated, including the former Nakahata Jinya(village office), a sericultural farmhouse, and a rice mill using a water wheel. Some Kura(warehouse) and other buildings are used as exhibition halls for historical materials. Visitors can try their hand at glass carving, painting Akabeko, Okiagarikoboshi, and Japanese archery and enjoy quiz cards and other challenges. There is a restaurant serving local cuisine and a store selling traditional handicrafts.
Highlights
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Visitors can see the restored Karo officer's residence of the Aizu clan.
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Visitors can paint traditional Aizu crafts, such as Akabeko and Okiagarikoboshi.
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There is also a restaurant serving local cuisine.