Aoyagi Samurai Manor Museum
Aoyagi Samurai Manor Museum
Aoyagi Samurai Manor Museum (26, Kakunodatemachi Higashikatsurakucho, Semboku-shi, Akita) – located 3 hours north of Tokyo, this is one of the best preserved architectural beauties of its kind in Japan. Founded on the rich traditions of the Aoyagi family, the Manor assumed a new facade in 1989 as a complex of open-air museums. The estate features the Main House, the Armory, the Seiryu-an Gallery, the Akita Folk Museum, the Samurai Tools and Utensils Museum, the Antique Museum and Tea Room, gift shops and a beautiful garden.
On display in the buildings are quaint items from the 17th through 20th centuries: samurai swords, utensils, clothing, toys, hanging scrolls, pictures and documents. Some of them have earned the designation as important cultural properties from the national, prefectural or municipal government. More treasures of historic value would join in the exhibition from a sealed family storehouse where experts have been evaluating the contents. Open daily from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm (April- October), 9:00 am – 4:00 pm (November – March). Admission: ¥500 (adult), ¥300 (student), ¥200 (child).