The old building is really well preserved and looks great in photos. If you’re into Japanese historic sites or old houses, you’ll probably love it.
It doesn’t take long to look around, so it’s best as a quick stop on the way—just to stroll through and soak up the traditional vibe.
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Kagawa Family Nagayamon Gate
A rare historic structure that preserves the look of Approx. 350 years ago.
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This is the main gate of the former Kagawa family residence, whose members served for generations as chief retainers of the Iwakuni Domain during the Edo period. It is said to have been built in the Genroku era in the late 17th century, and it still preserves the atmosphere of its original construction. Considered one of the oldest buildings in Iwakuni, it was designated a Tangible Cultural Property of Yamaguchi Prefecture in 1966. The gate measures 23.29 m wide and 4.85 m deep, with an irimoya (hip-and-gable) roof finished in traditional hon-kawara tiles.
In addition to the nagayamon gate, there were also a service entrance and a heijimon gate, suggesting they were used differently depending on rank and purpose. A teahouse stood on the left side of the nagayamon, while the right side once held quarters for retainers, a wooden-floored dojo, and a stable.
The site retains the classic layout of a samurai residence, offering a feel for Iwakuni’s past as a castle town. You can view the exterior from the road at any time. If the gate is open, you may look inside, but since it is still a private home, entry to the garden and other areas is not permitted.
Highlights
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The main gate of the former Kagawa family residence, a prominent family that served for generations as chief retainers of the Iwakuni Domain in the Edo period.
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Strongly retains its original look and is designated a prefectural Tangible Cultural Property.
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The exterior can be viewed anytime.
Photos
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Well-preserved samurai residence gate, designated a prefectural Tangible Cultural Property
Official FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.
Q
Do you have signs or pamphlets in foreign languages? (If you do, which languages are available?)
A
Sorry, we don’t.
Q
Is free Wi-Fi available in the area?
A
Yes.
Q
Are coin lockers available?
A
No.
Q
Are there restrooms nearby?
A
Yes.
Reviews
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Some reviews are AI-translated.
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A lot of the shops inside keep the original old-house layout—wooden doors, sliding doors, tile roofs… the aged feel is super strong. It’s a slow, relaxing place to wander, and you’ll want to keep taking photos.
Some shops sell little goods, and some are cafés. Overall it’s kind of artsy and mellow—perfect for a walk and a small snack.
Details
- Name in Japanese
- 香川家長屋門
- Postal Code
- 741-0081
- Address
- 2-4-9 Yokoyama, Iwakuni City, Yamaguchi
- Phone
- 0827-41-0452 (Cultural Properties Protection Division)
- Closed on
- Always open
- Hours
- Always open
- Admission
- Free
- Access
- From JR Shin-Iwakuni Station, take a bus bound for the Kintaikyo Bridge area for Approx. 15 minutes. From Kintaikyo bus stop, walk Approx. 7 minutes.
- Official Website
- Official website(Japanese)
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