December 9 2011

Aizu

Aizu Comments Off

Aizu, is located in the western most part of Fukushima Prefecture, region with a long tradition of Samurai refers. The legend of a group of soldiers of Aizu who committed suicide collectively to believe that the Tsuruga castle had been taken at the end of the 19th century is known in all Japan. The Castle has been restored since then and is a must-see for any tourist travel in Aizu.

The face and the name of Noguchi Hideo, probably the most famous resident of Aizu can be seen throughout the city. He was born and raised in Aizu, dedicating his life to medicine and getting great advances in the study of syphilis. His portrait can be found on banknotes of 1,000 yen.

Tsuruga Castle

Tsuruga Castle was built in 1384, passing through various hands to finally be destroyed in the Boshin war of 1868. This war against the rebels against the power of the Meiji government, which marked the end of the feudal era. The castle was one of the most important bastions of the Samurai during the Edo period. Read the rest of this entry »

Posted by indry at 10:57 am Tags: , , , , , , ,

October 14 2010

Aizu Sightseeing

Japanese Culture 1 Comment

On the Pacific coast of Fukushima prefecture is south of the Tohoku region. The capital is the same name and is a popular site because here the Castle Aizu-Wakamatzu. Aizu, period, is a region west of the prefecture that has a long tradition of samurai.

Aizu Sightseeing

This is a tradition of which its inhabitants are very proud and do not leave here without having heard more than once legendary story about the youth group Aizu soldiers who committed suicide at the thought that the castle had been taken.

This castle, Tsuruga Castle, was finally taken by the troops who wanted the end of feudalism in Japan. The tomb of the young warriors called Iimoriyama and the time is that we see depicted in the film The Last Samurai, starring Tom Cruise.

But well, besides the great castle what else can you see? The grave of 20 soldiers, of course, and one of the most beautiful mansions of samurai throughout Japan: Aizu Bukeyashiki. It is a huge complex of buildings and courtyards where the samurai lived, families and servants. The original complex was burned in 1868 but was rebuilt with its dozens of rooms and lounges. There are even mannequins that help the atmosphere play a little samurai in those days.

Posted by Masumi Hayami at 7:29 am Tags: , , , , ,