51ºÚÁÏ

Create Your Own
Feudal Japan Estate (Shoen)

Shoen were large, privately owned estates that were often tax-exempt and operated independently from the central government. They were typically granted to aristocrats, temples, or monasteries. These estates became the economic and administrative base for local lords during the Heian and Kamakura periods. Samurai and other local warriors often worked for or managed shoen on behalf of their owners.

Instructions:

Name your Estate: ______________________________________________________________

Your Name (Lord or Lady): _______________________________________________________

Illustrate, Label and Connect with roads or paths the following:

Samurai Barracks (Buke Yashiki) – Housing for samurai who protected the estate.

Granary (Kura) – Used to store rice and other crops, which were the primary form of wealth.

Storehouses (Nagaya or Dozo) – For keeping tools, supplies, and goods produced on the estate.

Rice Paddies (Tanbo) – Not a building, but an essential feature of the estate for rice cultivation.

Water Mills (Suisha) – For grinding grain or rice.

Shrine (Shinto Jinja) – A small shrine to honor local kami (spirits).

Buddhist Temple (Tera) – For religious ceremonies and the spiritual needs of the community.

Gatehouse (Yagura-mon) – For securing the entrance to the estate.

Watchtower (Yagura) – A defensive structure for monitoring the surrounding area.

Blacksmith’s Workshop (Kajiya) – Where tools, weapons, and farming implements were made or repaired.

Farmer’s Homes (Naya) – Simple houses where peasants or tenant farmers lived.

Meeting Hall (Kaisho) – A communal space for gatherings or administrative meetings.

Marketplace (Ichiba) – An area for trade and the exchange of goods.

Bathhouse (Ofuroya) – For bathing, often located near a natural hot spring if available.

Water source- (Stream, pond, river etc.)

Defensive Fencing or Walls – To protect your estate.

Other Crops- What do you grow and eat?