An architectural style specific to the samurai class residences appeared first during the Kamakura period, when the warrior class (bushi) begun rising to power.

The style, called buke-zukuri, was simple and practical. The main building, with a single roof, usually had four rooms with tatami mats, with a porch (engawa) in the back leading to a small garden, like in this photo taken at the Orii Samurai Residence in Takahashi, Okayama.

Orii Samurai Residence, Takahashi, Okayama

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Yesterday’s Japan Photo: Higashi Chaya district, Kanazawa