Ashikaga Clan Residence (Banna-ji)

Ashikaga Clan Residence is located in Ashikaga City, Tochigi Prefecture. It is said to have been built at the end of the 12th century by Ashikaga Yoshikane, the second head of the Ashikaga clan. Initially it was the residence of a warrior, and afterward Banna-ji, a Shingon Buddhist temple serving as the Ashikaga family's memorial temple (bodaiji), was constructed within the site. It is a square residence firmly defended by a water moat and earthen ramparts, and the site covers about 40,000 square meters. With gates arranged on all four sides, its layout preserves the appearance of a medieval warrior residence to this day. The main hall is designated a National Treasure, and the bell tower and sutra hall are designated Important Cultural Properties of the nation. The Ashikaga Clan Residence Site is designated a National Historic Site, and in Heisei 18 (2006) it was selected as No. 15 of Japan's 100 Famous Castles. It remains today as the precincts of Banna-ji, and citizens call it “Dainichi-sama” and hold it dear.