The former residence of Kurando Terashima – a middle-class samurai belonging to the Maeda clan – the house was constructed in the second half of the 18th century and offers a glimpse into the life and homes of the middle-class during the Edo Period. Kurando Terashima was an influential official and accomplished painter, who held a prominent position in Kanazwa through his life (1777-1837). Since 1974 his former residence has been open to the public and preserved as an important cultural property. English-language pamphlets are available on-site.
The Lion at the Gate
In the 1810s, Kurando Terashima was an influential member of the local government. Serving the 12th Lord of Kanazawa, the samurai was of humble wealth but a respected mathematician. He worked for a time as the magistrate of Takaoka, to the north-east of Kanazawa. He was an admired painter, a practitioner of the koto, the Japanese harp, and his wisdom was well-valued by the lord.
In 1824, Terashima was chosen to part of a committee established by the lord for political and economic reform. However, things took a turn with the lord's sudden death. In the ensuing power vacuum, Terashima was dismissed. Enraged, he went to the castle and demanded justice against those who had shoved him out. He had a heated argument with the new lord and the other retainers, after which he was called "The Lion at the Gate." In 1825, he was removed from virtually all of his positions, then exiled to Noto Island in 1837. He continued to speak out against what he saw as political injustice for the short remainder of his life, as he died later that year.
The House Today
Today, the house is beautifully maintained and captures the feeling of what a middle-class samurai would have lived like. It was designated as a historic site by Kanazawa City in 1974. There are several rooms, including a room for tea ceremony and a room where Terashima invited a friend from outside Kanazawa to visit and play the koto, the Japanese harp.
Also on display are several paintings done by Terashima under his pen name "Oyo" as well as displays of gifts he received and some of his samurai equipment. All the items are extremely well-preserved and it's easy to see why the samurai was so well respected.
The most striking feature of the house, though, is its immaculate garden. Best viewed in the fall, the garden is one of the best places to see the autumn leaves in Kanazawa, where you can enjoy freshly-brewed tea and a small sweet while looking out at the leaves. Kurando Terashima's house is rarely visited by people coming to Kanazawa, so it offers a peaceful atmosphere to enjoy the season.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much does it cost to enter the house?
It costs 310 yen for general admission into the house, which opens from 09:30 - 17:30 every day except Tuesdays.
Is the house wheelchair accessible?
Unfortunately, the house is not wheelchair accessible.
Does the house serve matcha?
Yes, the house serves matcha. It costs 350 yen per person and the tea room can accommodate up to six people.