Main entrance
There were seven locations equivalent to the entrance of Takayama Jin'ya, and the entrance was determined by the status of the visitor.
This entrance, located at the front of Takayama Jin'ya, was only allowed to be used by the magistrate and high-ranking officials sent by the shogunate. By the way, the differences in status are evident not only in the entrance but also in the edges of the tatami mats. As modern people, we can normally enter through this entrance.
Seigaiha pattern
The first thing you will see is the "Seigaiha pattern" on the floor. As its name suggests, Seigaiha is modeled after ocean waves. This pattern was very popular during the Edo period, and was painted with prayers for everlasting prosperity and peace.
Office rooms
This room played a central role in Takayama Jin'ya. Here, low-ranking samurai under the magistrate handled many local administrative tasks, such as tax collection, forest management, police, and court cases.
Interrogation room
The Inspection Office was where criminal investigations were carried out, and the court is the place where civil lawsuits were filed. It felt like a combination of what would now be a city hall counter and a police interrogation room. It's quite different from today.
Conference hall
The Great Hall was used for annual events and official meetings. It is a very large room that can be divided into three rooms using sliding doors.
Rice storehouse
This building was used as a storehouse for storing rice as tax. It has remained the same for over 300 years since it was moved from Takayama Castle in 1695.