Umoreginoya Ii Naosuke Residence
Explore the formative years of Ii Naosuke, a pivotal figure in Japanese history, at his childhood residence. Discover his legacy and the philosophy th...
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Must-see attractions
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Umoreginoya Ii Naosuke Residence
Best Time
Pleasant weather, vibrant nature
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the formative years of Ii Naosuke, a pivotal figure in Japanese history, at his childhood residence. Discover his legacy and the philosophy that shaped him.
"This is the mansion where Ii Naosuke lived from the age of 17 to 32, shaping his influential role in Japanese history. "
Check Opening Hours ⏰
Verify museum hours, especially during winter off-season, as closures can occur.
Separate Tickets 🎟️
Note that tickets for this residence are separate from Hikone Castle; no combo tickets are sold.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 10 Mysteries of Umekisha
Uncover intriguing secrets and historical anecdotes within the grounds of Ii Naosuke's former residence.
The Calming Willow Tree
See the very willow tree Ii Naosuke gazed upon to find peace during moments of frustration.
Ii Naosuke's Youthful Dwelling
Explore the building where Ii Naosuke spent his youth, a place that fostered his growth into a key historical figure.
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Understanding Ii Naosuke's Legacy
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Opening Hours ⏰
Verify museum hours, especially during winter off-season, as closures can occur.
Separate Tickets 🎟️
Note that tickets for this residence are separate from Hikone Castle; no combo tickets are sold.
Understand the History 📜
Learn about Ii Naosuke's life and his significant impact on Japanese history.
Appreciate the Garden 🌳
The grounds, including the willow tree, offer a glimpse into Ii Naosuke's personal space.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Opening Hours ⏰
Verify museum hours, especially during winter off-season, as closures can occur.
Separate Tickets 🎟️
Note that tickets for this residence are separate from Hikone Castle; no combo tickets are sold.
Understand the History 📜
Learn about Ii Naosuke's life and his significant impact on Japanese history.
Appreciate the Garden 🌳
The grounds, including the willow tree, offer a glimpse into Ii Naosuke's personal space.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors appreciate the historical significance of the Umoreginoya Ii Naosuke Residence as the childhood home of Ii Naosuke, a key figure in Japanese history. The grounds, including the willow tree and the '10 Mysteries,' offer engaging points of interest. However, some visitors note that the inability to enter the house and potential off-season closures can be a drawback.
"This is the mansion where Ii Naosuke lived from the age of 17 to 32. As the 14th son of the 11th feudal lord, Ii Naonaka, he had to live outside the castle, and when he started living here, I don't think he ever imagined he would become the lord of Hikone.
However, the experience he gained during his 15 years here was put to good use when he became Tairo (chief advisor) to the Edo Shogunate. By signing the Treaty of Amity and Commerce between the United States and Japan amidst the turmoil, he ultimately helped prevent American colonization. Without Ii Naosuke, Japan today may well have been a different place.
He was ultimately assassinated by anti-foreign factions, including those from the Mito domain, before he could achieve his goals. But the fact that someone who was never meant to leave his mark on history in the first place was able to influence Japanese politics is a testament to the hard work he put into this Umekiya.
In these unpredictable times, I want to be like Ii Naosuke and constantly work on improving myself.
Also, the name "Umekisha" was chosen out of self-deprecation, but in the end, it wasn't buried at all, and I'm glad that he served his duties so well.
[Highlights]
1. Check out the 10 Mysteries of Umekisha
2. The willow tree that he looked up at and calmed himself down when he was angry and thought, "I'm in a sulk, so I'll return to the garden and see a willow tree."
[Other]
●Adults: 300 yen, High School and University Students: 200 yen, Elementary and Middle School Students: 100 yen
●Shiga Prefectural Gokoku Shrine: Pass the "Iroha Pine" and turn right in front of the moat."
哲史
"The building where Naosuke Ii spent his youth.
Naosuke wrote a waka poem that said, ``Even though I look at the world, I am buried in a heartless body.'' Naosuke named himself ``Umikisha,'' and devoted himself to training in both literary and martial arts. It is said that the talent that led him to become the father of the founding of the country as an elder of the Tokugawa shogunate was cultivated here."
たまちゃん旅人
""Ichigo ichie" means "one lifetime." It is the mindset of both the host and the guest that a tea ceremony is a once-in-a-lifetime encounter that will never be repeated. In "Yamanoue Sojiki," Rikyu is quoted as saying "ichigo ni ichido," and in the late Edo period, Ii Naosuke expressed it as "ichigo ichie" in his book "Chayu Ichieshu." Incidentally, the name "Umekisha" appears to come from a haiku written by Ii Naosuke: "While I look upon the world with apathy, I am a heartless person who is not buried in the buried wood.""
青山裕史
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Umoreginoya Ii Naosuke Residence is located on the edge of the outer moat of Hikone Castle. While specific public transport details are scarce, it's generally accessible from Hikone Castle.
Information on dedicated parking for the Umoreginoya Ii Naosuke Residence is limited. Visitors often combine their trip with Hikone Castle, which has parking facilities. It's advisable to check local parking options in Hikone.
Yes, the residence is situated on the edge of Hikone Castle's outer moat, making it a walkable distance from the castle grounds.
Hikone Castle is accessible by train. From Hikone Station, it's a short walk or bus ride to the castle. The residence is then a short stroll from the castle area.
The residence is located near the Shiga Prefectural Gokoku Shrine. Pass the 'Iroha Pine' and turn right in front of the moat to find it.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees are 300 yen for adults, 200 yen for high school and university students, and 100 yen for elementary and middle school students.
Advance ticket purchase information is not readily available. It's generally recommended to purchase tickets upon arrival, but checking the official website or local tourist information is advised.
No, tickets for the Umoreginoya Ii Naosuke Residence are separate from Hikone Castle. They do not offer a combined ticket package.
Opening hours can vary, especially during the off-season. It was noted that the museum was closed until February 28th in one instance during winter. Always check the latest operating schedule before your visit.
You cannot enter the house itself, but there are various exhibits displayed within the premises that offer insights into Ii Naosuke's life.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
Visitors can explore the grounds, learn about Ii Naosuke's youth, see the willow tree he frequented, and discover the '10 Mysteries of Umekisha'. Exhibits provide historical context.
The grounds and the historical building offer picturesque views, especially the garden with the willow tree. It's a good spot for capturing historical ambiance.
A visit to the Umoreginoya Ii Naosuke Residence can take around 1-2 hours, depending on your interest in the historical exhibits and the grounds.
'Umekisha' was a name Ii Naosuke chose for himself out of self-deprecation, reflecting his dedication to self-improvement and training in both literary and martial arts.
Information on guided tours is not widely available. Visitors typically explore the site independently, using the provided exhibits for information.
🎫 🍵 Tea Culture & Philosophy
Ii Naosuke was a proponent of the tea ceremony and documented his philosophy in 'Chayu Ichieshu'. He embraced the concept of 'Ichigo ichie' (one lifetime, one encounter).
'Ichigo ichie' signifies the mindset that each tea ceremony is a unique, unrepeatable encounter. Ii Naosuke applied this philosophy to his life and studies at Umekisha.
His dedication to self-improvement, inspired by 'Ichigo ichie', allowed him to cultivate talents that led him to become a significant figure in the Tokugawa shogunate.
While the residence is primarily focused on Ii Naosuke's youth and historical impact, the philosophy of tea ceremony is deeply intertwined with his life and writings, which are often referenced in exhibits.
Exhibits at the residence often touch upon his writings, including 'Chayu Ichieshu'. Further research into Japanese history and tea ceremony texts would provide deeper insights.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep the visit concise, focusing on the visual aspects of the grounds and the building. Explaining Ii Naosuke's role as a historical figure who grew up here might be more impactful than delving into complex political details. Consider combining this visit with Hikone Castle for a more varied experience for children.
🍵 Tea Enthusiasts
While the residence itself may not have active tea ceremony facilities, the historical context and the insights into Ii Naosuke's dedication to self-cultivation through literary and martial arts, alongside his philosophical contributions, provide a rich backdrop for appreciating the deeper meanings within the tea ceremony.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Ii Naosuke: A Pivotal Historical Figure
Ii Naosuke's most significant contribution was his role in opening Japan to foreign trade and diplomacy. Amidst international pressure, he signed the Treaty of Amity and Commerce between the United States and Japan, a move that profoundly altered Japan's trajectory and is credited with helping to prevent colonization. Despite facing strong opposition from anti-foreign factions, his actions were instrumental in navigating Japan through a turbulent era. His assassination by these factions underscores the controversial nature of his policies, but his impact on modern Japan is undeniable.
The residence itself, though modest, represents the foundation upon which his influential career was built. The name 'Umekisha,' chosen by Ii Naosuke himself, reflects his humble beginnings and his commitment to personal growth. Visiting this site allows one to connect with the formative experiences of a leader whose decisions shaped the course of Japanese history.
The Philosophy of 'Ichigo Ichie'
Ii Naosuke eloquently expressed this philosophy in his writings, particularly in his book 'Chayu Ichieshu' (茶湯一会集). He believed that every encounter, whether in a tea ceremony or in life, should be treated as a singular, unrepeatable event. This mindset fostered a deep appreciation for the present and a commitment to making the most of every opportunity. The dedication Ii Naosuke showed to his studies and his duties as Tairo can be seen as an embodiment of this philosophy.
Understanding 'Ichigo ichie' provides a deeper appreciation for Ii Naosuke's character and his approach to life and leadership. It suggests a man who valued mindfulness, sincerity, and the profound significance of each moment, principles that likely guided him through the complex political landscape he navigated.
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