The Gojoban Yashiki refers to a row of Japanese houses in Matsusaka town that were built for samurai in the late Edo period (1600-1867). The samurai warriors that lived here were charged with the protection of Matsusaka Castle. Two long rows of Japanese houses are divided by a paved footpath and surrounded by beautiful Japanese hedges. Walking past the hedges, you can feel the place's history. It is also a great place to take pictures. Rows of samurai houses surviving in such a good condition are rare and certainly worth a visit for anyone interested in early modern history. One of the houses is open to the public.

Photograph provided by ”Visit ISESHIMA” Bureau