Honmachi Kitaura, Shirakawa City, Fukushima Prefecture
Rating
Cost per person
Free
The Wakihonjin Yanagiya Ryokan is a historic site in Shirakawa, Fukushima Prefecture, located a short walk from Shirakawa Station. Once a lodging for high-ranking officials and samurai, including members of the Shinsengumi during the Boshin War and even Emperor Meiji, it offers a glimpse into Japan's Edo and Meiji periods. While the interior is typically closed to the public, visitors can still admire the exterior architecture and imagine its storied past. Look for the traditional wooden gate and signs indicating its historical significance. Best time to visit is during the day to fully appreciate the architectural details from the outside.