Hello, fellow travel lovers!
This time, let me introduce Kodokan, the high-spec school of the Edo period! This was one of the largest domain schools in Japan, where samurai trained to become smart, strong, and well-mannered. Truly an elite training ground!
I took advantage of a limited-time special admission ticket available during the Plum Blossom Festival, which allows you to visit Kodokan, Kairakuen, and Kobuntei as a set—a smart way to explore!
What is Kodokan? The Elite School of the Late Edo Period!
Kodokan was one of Japan’s largest domain schools, founded in 1841 by Tokugawa Nariaki, the 9th lord of the Mito domain.
Simply put, it was an elite school for samurai! The young men who studied here went on to play significant roles in shaping history.
The curriculum covered three main areas: politics, academics, and martial arts!
In modern terms, it was like a combination of the University of Tokyo, a martial arts dojo, and an etiquette school. 🤔
Highlights to Check Out!
Shōchō (Main Hall)
This is the main hall of Kodokan.
Samurai sat upright in perfect posture here, studying and taking rigorous exams.
Stepping into the spacious tatami room, you can almost feel the pressure—like you need to sit properly right away or risk getting scolded! 😂
Plum Garden
In spring, the garden is filled with beautifully blooming plum blossoms. 🌸
The combination of historic architecture and plum blossoms is simply stunning! It almost makes you think, "If I had studied in a place like this, maybe I’d be a genius too?" (Wishful thinking! 😂)
How to Explore Kodokan Smartly! Ticket Information
If you want to fully enjoy Kodokan, using the limited-time special admission ticket is the smartest choice!
🎫 Kodokan, Kairakuen, and Kobuntei Set Ticket
- Price: 730 yen (Regular total: 970 yen)
- Validity Period: Until March 31, 2025 (Monday)
- Eligibility: 15 years and older (excluding students in compulsory education), free for preschool children.
Kodokan alone is well worth the visit, but if you're also planning to see Kairakuen and Kobuntei, this ticket is definitely a great deal!
Summary
Even if you're not a history buff, just soaking in the atmosphere of Kodokan makes you feel a little smarter!
正庁では、ここで試験受けたら絶対落ちるわ…とビビりつつ、庭園の梅の香りでリラックス（笑）
And after all that walking… of course, it’s time for a hot spring!
In the next blog, I'll introduce my favorite hot springs in Mito—stay tuned! ♨️
The journey continues... Wishing you all a wonderful trip! – TabiJun
