The distinguishing feature of the former Yakage Honjin is its large size and the fact that it has remained almost exactly as it was from the late Edo period to the early Meiji period. The building has all the functions of a honjin at that time, such as the front gate, entrance, large hall, living room, and kitchen, and conveys its high status to the present day. In particular, the "Jodan no Ma" where the daimyo stayed has a majestic structure that gives you a sense of the authority of the time. Inside, palanquins, furnishings, and related materials used by the daimyo are on display, allowing you to experience the history of the sankin-kotai system that lasted for about 260 years.

A beautiful garden also spreads out on the grounds of the honjin. It is a tasteful Japanese garden that changes with the seasons, and it is fun to stroll around while imagining the scenery that the daimyo would have seen during their stay. The view of the garden will soothe your mind after a weary journey. The weight of history and silence that emanates from the entire building will help you forget the hustle and bustle of modern times.

Yakage-juku is known as the only post town on the Sanyo Highway where both the Honjin and Waki-honjin still remain. By visiting the former Yakage Honjin, you can not only see the building, but also get a glimpse of the transportation and social structure of the Edo period, as well as a part of the magnificent historical picture scroll of the feudal lord procession. This is a highly recommended place for history buffs as well as those interested in traditional Japanese architecture.

[Trivia]
- The Ishii family has served as the Yakage Honjin for generations, and supported the history of the sankin-kotai system that lasted for about 260 years.

- The Honjin building is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan.

- Not only the Honjin, but also the Waki-honjin (former Takakusa family residence) still remains in Yakage-juku, and by visiting both, you can gain a deeper understanding of the state of the post town.

[Hidden Spot Information]
The Yakage Town Library, within walking distance of the former Yakage Honjin, has a large collection of local materials and history books related to Yakage-juku and Honjin. For those who wish to learn more about the history of Yakage-juku after touring the Honjin, this is a hidden spot where you can quietly deepen your knowledge.