京都の新選組巡り – Shinsengumi Sites in Kyoto

For diehard fans of the Shinsengumi (like me), these places should be on your list.  Unfortunately, they are not very English-friendly, and photography is prohibited most areas, but all three are within walking distance of each other making for an easy quarter-day (half-day if you want to take it extra-leisurely).

It’s easiest to start with the Maekawa Residence, one of two family buildings that hosted the Shinsengumi’s headquarters.  In the past this building was open for tours, but overzealous fans have caused it to be closed for the public.  Despite this, it is still worth a quick look, as the building is still in good condition, and the gift shop sells photos of the inside.  There is also a box containing copies of the floor map of the entire residence on nice parchment paper for a pittance.

Less than a five minute’s walk from the Maekawa is the other Shinsengumi headquarters building, the Yagi Residence.  Unlike the Maekawa, this is open to the public (tours only).  It’s especially worth a visit as you can see some of the original spears used by Harada Sanosuke, and sword cuts in the wooden beams from the assassination of Serizawa Kamo.  No photography, however, is permitted inside the building.

Right next door to the Yagi Residence is the Mibu Temple.  Some of it has changed with the times, but the main hall and grounds are the same from when Okita Souji would play with the local children.  It also contains a memorial area called Mibu Mound, which houses a bust in honor of Kondou Isami.

Vital Information:

• Open: Maekawa Residence Hours Vary; Yagi Residence 9:00 to 17:00 (Admission until 16:30); Mibu Temple 24 Hours, but Mibu Mound is open 8:30 to 16:30

• Closed: No Closing Days

• Yagi Residence 1000 yen Admission (includes tea service); Mibu Temple 100 yen Admission to Mibu mound

• Semi-English Friendly

• Take Kyoto City Bus 28 and get off at Mibudera Michi bus stop