Ukogikaki's Samurai Residences

【Living History Green Corridor】The wisdom of Lord Takayama and the pride of the Harakatas live on in the "Ukogigaki Buke Yashiki Group"

A little beyond the castle town of Yonezawa, you will find a group of samurai residences enveloped in tranquility, retaining the strong echoes of the Edo period. The vivid green "Ukogigaki" that continues to surround the houses defines this landscape. Not only beautiful, but it is also a unique walking spot filled with history and wisdom, as it is a "edible hedge" that is characteristic of Yonezawa.

■ The memory of the "Harakatas" who lived robustly with sword and hoe

A point of niche interest here is the historical background that this hedge was planted under the recommendation of the 9th feudal lord, Uesugi Takayama.

• Two birds with one stone idea: The branches of Ukogigaki have thorns, making it excellent for "security," and in spring, the new shoots can serve as "emergency food" or "nutritional sources," showcasing a groundbreaking wisdom for living.
• Samurai pride: In this area, there are people known as the "Harakatas" who lived with pride as samurai while cultivating farmland, and their simple yet strong lifestyle is symbolized by this hedge.

■ Total length of 20km! Experience "edible history" even today

The green corridor, said to extend over 20km, is still carefully preserved by the local people.

• Ongoing culture: In spring, each household picks new shoots, and the food culture of enjoying them as ohitashi or "Ukogigohan" is still firmly passed down.
• Blessed stroll: Walking in the dappled sunlight while reflecting on history is not just a visit to "historical sites of the past"; it becomes a special experience to feel the breath of Yonezawa.