A slight detour from my trip home from work takes me here, the Matsuzaki Shuku (or is that Juku?) For those who can’t wait for the video explaining what this place is, it was a rest stop for Daimyō & their entourages on their long journeys (& forced visits) to the capital of Edo. This system was known as Sankin kōtai (参勤交代).

This particular rest-stop is located in southern Fukuoka Prefecture, so it was used by clans such as the Shimazu, Hosokawa and Tachibana, among others.

Very few signs of the Shuku remain today. Happily, things of interest can still be found if you seek them out.

Below is a building whose interesting styling and white-plaster walls means it get noticed. There was no information board to indicate that it even existed when the Shuku was catering to Daimyō & samurai.

This tin-topped, two-story building is the only inn that remains. It was one of many that once lined the streets.

Hanging onions who are paying for their crime of being yummy.

A seemingly abandoned building. I am intrigued as to what may be found inside. If only the side of the building would open up allowing me to pear within.

Damn! I still can’t quite see inside. I suspect if I take a closer look, someone will call the police.

This was so cool. These two trowel artists were applying the finishing touches to the house’s gable.

One of my final sights before exiting the Shuku.

Thanks you checking this post out everyone. I have been very slack with posting these last couple of months.