500 Years Old Samurai (Japanese Warrior) House -Oldest Samurai House in Fukui-
2018.11.11
I visited "Senko-no-ie" the oldest samurai (Japanese warrior) house
in Takeda district, Sakai City, Fukui Prefecture.
The area where the house is located is surrounded by rich nature.
It was very soothing just to walk around in the area.
When I visited, it was in the beginning of autumn and the weather was very nice.
Japanese pampas grasses were constantly moving gently in the breeze.
I felt "fuzei" from the scenery. Encyclopedia JAPAN says that the Japanese word
"fuzei is one of the aesthetic feelings which have existed from ancient times in Japan".
As I walked into the grounds of the house, a big old house caught my eyes.
This is the residence of Tsubokawa's that is about 500 years old.
It is believed that the Tsubokawa family was founded in the 13th century
by Sadasumi Tsubokawa who was a high-ranking samurai.
In 1966, the national government designated the house
as an Important National Cultural Asset.
During winter, we have a lot of snow in this area (Takeda district in Fukui Prefecture).
It is unbelievable to see that the house is still here without missing parts or anything,
even the house must have had so much snow in 500 years.
It is enjoyable to eat by the irori fireplace feeling nice and warm.
Besides eating by the irori fireplace, there's a cozy cafe right by the Senko-no Ie.
Noodles, light meals, coffee, tea, etc., are served.
If you have a chance to visit Fukui, how about visiting "Senko-no-ie"?
I'm sure you have such a soothing and beautiful experience there.
T.F
*You need advance reservation for meals/drinks.
Senko Cafe(website is only available in Japanese)
*Reservation is requested no later than one week before the date for having the meals,
and by the previous day for drinks.
This is the video of Charlotte from Australia visited "Senko-no-Ie". Enjoy!