Yagyu

Quietly nestled in the mountains on the eastern edge of Nara City, Yagyu Village is known as the birthplace of the Yagyu clan, who served as swordsmanship instructors to the shogun family during the Edo period. The Yagyu Shinkage-ryu school of swordsmanship, which has served the Tokugawa shogunate for generations since being recognized by Tokugawa Ieyasu, is a prestigious tradition whose history remains deeply rooted in the land of Yagyu.

Yagyu Shinkage-ryu and the Yagyu Clan

Founded by Yagyu Muneyoshi, and brought to national fame when his son Yagyu Munenori became the official swordsmanship instructor to the Tokugawa family, the name “Yagyu” spread throughout Japan. The philosophy of the “Katsujinken” – the life-giving sword that subdues an opponent without killing – is regarded as a philosophy that goes beyond mere martial technique and continues to attract attention even today.

Hotokuji Temple, the Yagyu Family Temple

Here you can visit the graves of the Yagyu clan. The temple grounds display various items connected to the Yagyu family, offering a glimpse into the era when master swordsmen lived and trained.

Former Yagyu Domain Chief Retainer Residence

This precious building preserves the atmosphere of a samurai residence from the Edo period. Exhibits that convey what daily life was like at the time make it an irresistible spot for history enthusiasts.

Ittoseki Rock

Ittoseki is a giant rock associated with a legend that Yagyu Muneyoshi cleaved it in two with a single stroke during a match with a tengu (a long-nosed goblin). Seeing it in person, you will be astonished by the cross-section, which looks as if it were sliced cleanly by a blade.

The rock has also become a sacred place for anime fans, as it is said to resemble the location where the protagonist Tanjiro Kamado trains in the massively popular manga and anime “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba.”

A Setting for Period Dramas and Novels

The Yagyu clan has been the subject of numerous historical novels, films, and TV dramas. The name “Yagyu Jubei” is so famous that almost everyone in Japan has heard it at least once. Visiting this area in person allows you to experience the curious sensation of fiction and historical fact intersecting.

Satoyama Scenery and the Four Seasons

Beyond its history of master swordsmen, Yagyu is also attractive for its satoyama landscape, often described as Japan’s original rural scenery. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom, and in autumn, colorful foliage decorates the mountain village. Visitors can enjoy peaceful walks far from the hustle and bustle of the city. The terraced rice fields and traditional farmhouses, carefully preserved by local residents, are also recommended for those who wish to experience life in the Japanese countryside.

Promoting Cosplay Photography

Yagyu Town is also famous as a sacred site in pop culture for works such as “Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba” and “Touken Ranbu.” As part of its community revitalization efforts, the town actively promotes and supports cosplay photography.

Many areas are residential, where local people go about their daily lives, so activities such as shouting loudly or using props that may dirty the surroundings are prohibited. In addition, for the comfort of other visitors, there are several rules to follow, such as bans on highly revealing costumes and on long, extended photo shoots.

Furthermore, depending on the location, you may need to obtain permission in advance or pay an admission fee. Inquiries are mandatory, which may feel like a bit of a hurdle, but it can be worth the effort if you make use of translation tools and give it a try.

For details on cosplay rules and how to apply, please check the official tourism website.