The Hitoyoshi Domain (人吉藩), also known as Hitoyoshi-han, was a key Japanese domain in the Edo period closely tied to Higo Province in present-day Kumamoto Prefecture. It played a vital role in the han system, relying on surveys and agricultural productivity for its operation. Unlike Western feudal systems, the Hitoyoshi Domain's value was based on kokudaka, projected yields, rather than land size. This unique approach distinguished it from traditional feudal structures, showcasing Japan's distinct governance and economic organization during that time.[1][2][3]
| Hitoyoshi Domain 人吉藩 | |
|---|---|
| Domain of Japan | |
| 1585–1871 | |
 Mon of the Sagara clan
| |
 Restored tower and wall of Hitoyoshi Castle | |
| Capital | Hitoyoshi Castle |
| Government | |
| • Type | Daimyō |
| Daimyō | |
• 1585-1636 | Sagara Yorifusa (first) |
• 1855-1871 | Sagara Yorimoto (last) |
| Historical era | Edo period |
• Established | 1585 |
• Disestablished | 1871 |
| Today part of | Kumamoto Prefecture |
- ^ Roberts, Luke S. (2012-02-29). Performing the Great Peace: Political Space and Open Secrets in Tokugawa Japan. University of Hawaii Press. ISBN 978-0-8248-6115-5.
- ^ Cobbing, Andrew (2008-12-18). Kyushu: Gateway to Japan: A Concise History. Global Oriental. ISBN 978-90-04-21312-8.
- ^ Leupp, Gary P.; Tao, De-min (2021-09-20). The Tokugawa World. Routledge. ISBN 978-1-000-42741-7.