By 珍スポの達人

In this captivating video, the channel 珍スポの達人 takes us on a historical exploration of the Yanagimachi red-light district located in Shunan City (周南市), Yamaguchi Prefecture. Once a thriving entertainment area during the time when the city functioned as a military base, Yanagimachi was home to numerous traditional brothels known as 'giro' (妓楼). Today, remnants of this once-bustling quarter still stand, bearing silent testimony to its vivid past.

Shunan City, formerly part of the old Tokuyama domain, flourished as a military city, or 'gunto' (軍都), during the era of the Japanese Empire. Yanagimachi (柳町遊郭) was an essential part of the city's entertainment infrastructure, servicing the needs of many stationed soldiers and visitors. The video captures surviving architecture, detailing wooden facades, intricate latticework, and traditional signage which echo the aesthetics of the pre-war and post-war periods in Japan.

The walkthrough showcases several well-preserved structures that remarkably display the old giro style, some complete with double-tiered balconies and ornamental metal railings. These visuals not only provide insight into the architectural style of the time but also offer a glimpse into the social history of Japan, particularly the lives of the women who once worked in the red-light district.

This exploration isn't just an exposé on abandoned buildings—it’s also a reflection on historical transitions, from militarized pasts to modern urban identities. The video ties in with broader narratives of Japan's war history and post-war reconstruction, since Shunan also hosted key industrial and military facilities. For those interested in wartime ruins, the channel recommends a visit to Otsushima (大津島), an island nearby that served as a secret training base for Japan’s Kaiten (manned torpedoes) during WWII.

Whether you’re a history buff or someone intrigued by Japan’s lesser-known cultural landscapes, this video offers a unique window into an era where beauty, commerce, and darkness intertwined.