The name of the samurai family that lived in Muratamachi Bukeyashiki has been lost to the sands of time, but part of their legacy lives on as their former home is now a historic property and icon of the town. Muratamachi Bukeyashiki is believed to have been constructed sometime in the 1860s , meaning the home and its original owners would have been witnesses to the end of the Tokugawa Shogunate and the beginning of the Meiji Restoration. That would also mean the owners would have eventually lost their rank as samurai but likely found a new profession. This puts a bittersweet note to the stay, but also makes it more poignant.

Design and Architecture

Due to its age, the structure of Muratamachi Bukeyashiki doesn't fully consist of its original materials. Parts of the home have been modernized, particularly the bathroom and the modern kitchen. Other areas have been rebuilt using newer materials, but their style and architecture are meant to remain true to the original aesthetics. Other significant additions to the home include the addition of platform beds, though futons are still available for those who want a much more authentic experience. Electric fixtures such as lights are used instead of lamps to lessen the risk of fires. The same could be said of the roof, which now sports a modern design. Another part of the property that retains its simple beauty is the garden, though one could only guess what else it contained over a century and a half ago.

Since Muratamachi Bukeyashiki is a fully equipped guest house, you can prepare your own meals here instead of needing to dine out every time. That said, guests are required to use the modern kitchen which has an electric stove and microwave. The irori or sunken hearth that guests will see in the home is unfortunately just for visual purposes now. Due to the age and condition of the home, as well as its historical importance, open flames are prohibited as these may result in fire damage.

Cultural Experiences

While the stay at this samurai home can be an experience unto itself, visitors can deepen their understanding of the local culture and history by exploring Murata and mingling with the townsfolk. Fortunately, getting around Murata will be easy with the bicycles you can rent during your stay. You can shop at Murata Michi-no-Eki, a government-run rest stop that also serves as the community's farmer's market that sells local products and delicacies. Along the way to the market, you'll also see the Muratacho Museum which has exhibits of the town's local history and craftsworks. There's also the Murata Storehouse Street neighborhood, a historic area with Edo Period architecture and merchant shops that used to trade in safflower and indigo. If you travel to the nearby city of Sendai, you'll be able to find more historic attractions. You can also visit the Date Masamune Museum, dedicated to the legendary daimyo of Tohoku and founder of Sendai, who is also now recognized as a pop culture icon for modern fans of samurai culture.

Other Celebrations

Muratamachi Bukeyashiki may be a guesthouse, but if you're looking to celebrate a birthday or anniversary here, it would be proper to first inform the host of your plans. They may not agree to hosting a party at the home but at the very least they can recommend local venues or establishments if your special day ends requiring one.