Outline

Bunbu Gakko was created in 1855 as the school of literature and martial arts for the sons of samurai serving the Matsushiro Clan. The school consisted of classrooms and a lecture hall for learning and martial art training halls. It is safe to say that Bunbu Gakko is the only feudal clan-operated school in Japan that stands on its original site with the original structures remaining almost intact.

Sojutsusho (Spear Practice Hall) and Koyagumi Roof

The school’s philosophy of teaching both literary and military disciplines reflected the state of the world in the second half of the 19th century, thus they had many places to practice martial arts. Students selected the classes they wanted to take and could also choose their instructors. Even now, the buildings are used for kendo tournaments as well as for archery and classic Japanese martial arts practice and competitions. The sojutsusho is a spear dojo that was built with a high ceiling to accommodate long spears. The thick beams and sturdy koyagumi roof withstood intense practices.

Literary Hall

The Literary Hall was used as a classroom and also as an auditorium for a large number of people. The western half was used as an administrative office for the staff running the school. The westernmost room was used as a waiting room for when the lord visited the school or as a special room for guests. A kitchen is located in the building, and staff and instructors dined here.