Walk through the bamboo forest of Hiyodori-zaka

This historical path next to the street of old samurai residences is surrounded by beautiful bamboo forests that have remained almost unchanged since the Edo period. The gently ascending slope is strategically contained within various styles of bamboo blind fences, so you might get the feeling that a samurai could appear at any moment. About halfway up the hill, you can rest on a bench on the side of the path to further absorb the atmosphere of the ancient bamboo forest. In recent years, this mystical location has been featured in various media, making it a popular photo spot. The “Samurai Walk” around Sakura Castle Town will take you on a guided tour of Hiyodori-zaka, the former samurai residences, and Makata Shrine. Be prepared to dress like a samurai and learn about their etiquette, martial arts and culture for a fully immersive experience!

Three of the buildings are open to the public, including the former homes of Nishimura Shigeki (a samurai of the Sakura domain, founding member of the Meiji 6 Society, and pioneer of modern moral education in Japan) and Kodama Gentarou (a samurai of the Tokuyama domain, commander of the Sakura regiment, governor-general of Taiwan, and army general during the Russo-Japanese War). The former residences of Kawara, Tajima and Takei samurai families exhibit period furniture, armor and other artifacts excavated from the Sakura domain.