Nagamachi, the samurai district

Nagamachi is the residential district where the samurai serving the Maeda clan lived during the Edo period, and it is today one of the best-preserved historic ensembles of feudal Japan. Its winding lanes, reddish adobe walls topped with tiles and small stone canals create a period-film atmosphere that has lost none of its authenticity. Most of the old residences are private homes, but the Nomura House (Nomura-ke) opens to the public for 550 ¥: a magnificent example of a samurai mansion with a sukiya-style garden, tatami rooms, and original armour and katanas on display. There is also a small museum of samurai attire. Strolling the district's streets is completely free. It is reached by tourist bus (Korinbo stop, left line) and the district is a ten-minute walk from the 21st Century Museum. It is highly advisable to combine the visit with the Nishi Chaya district, a five-minute walk away.