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In Namamugi 4-chome, Tsurumi Ward, Yokohama City, on a corner along the old Tokaido Road, the breath of history quietly lingers. This is the site where the "Namamugi Incident" occurred on August 21, 1862, amid the upheaval at the end of the Edo period. At that time, as the procession of the Satsuma domain, led by Shimazu Hisamitsu, the father of the domain lord, was passing through this area, four British merchants including Richardson approached the procession on horseback, incurring the anger of the domain retainers. As a result, Richardson lost his life, and two others were seriously injured, creating a tragedy. (yokohama-tsurumiinfo.jp)
Currently, an information board conveying this historical event has been reinstalled through the enthusiasm and efforts of local residents. The board displays a nishiki-e (color woodblock print) depicting the circumstances of the incident and the scene at the time, conveying a glimpse of the late Edo period to visitors. (townnews.co.jp)
Looking around, modern residential neighborhoods spread out and daily life continues. However, standing on this spot, one can sense the bustle of the old Tokaido and the atmosphere of an era where different cultures intersected. The Namamugi Incident became a turning point in history, leading to the Anglo-Satsuma War and the Meiji Restoration. This place, as a witness to that history, still stands quietly today.