About
In the heart of Nagano Prefecture, nestled within the serene landscapes of Saku City, lies a place where history whispers through the remnants of stone and earth. Here, at the precise coordinates of 36.1995252 latitude and 138.5006023 longitude, one encounters the vestiges of a bygone era—a place where the past and present converge in silent testimony.
As you approach, the gentle undulations of the terrain guide you toward a structure that, at first glance, might seem unassuming. Yet, upon closer inspection, the remnants of a star-shaped fortress emerge, a rare architectural gem in Japan. This is one of only two such fortifications in the nation, the other being the famed Goryōkaku in Hakodate. The five-pointed design, inspired by Western military architecture, stands as a testament to a time when Japan was opening its doors to the world, embracing new ideas while holding steadfast to its traditions.
The fortress was the brainchild of Matsudaira Norikata, a visionary leader who, in the tumultuous years of the late Edo period, sought to modernize his domain's defenses. Construction began in 1864, a period rife with political upheaval and the looming shadow of change. Despite the challenges, the fortress was completed in 1867, its unique design reflecting a blend of Japanese resilience and Western innovation.
Walking along the remnants of the stone walls, one can almost hear the echoes of the past—the clatter of construction, the strategic discussions of samurai, and the quiet determination of a people on the brink of a new era. The walls, though weathered by time, still exude a sense of strength and purpose. The surrounding moat, now tranquil, once served as a formidable barrier, its waters a mirror reflecting both the sky above and the ambitions of those who built it.
Within the fortress grounds, the "御台所" (Odaidokoro) stands as a solitary sentinel of the past. This structure, which once served as the castle's kitchen, is the only building that has withstood the ravages of time and change. Its wooden beams and tiled roof tell stories of daily life within the fortress, of meals prepared and shared, of a community bound together by duty and tradition.
Today, the site serves as the grounds for a local elementary school, a living bridge between past and present. The laughter of children at play mingles with the whispers of history, creating a tapestry of continuity and change. It's a poignant reminder that while the structures we build may fade, the spirit of a place endures, carried forward by those who walk its paths.
As the sun sets over the horizon, casting a golden glow upon the stone and earth, one can't help but feel a deep connection to the generations that have come before. This place, marked by its unique design and rich history, stands as a silent witness to the passage of time, inviting all who visit to pause, reflect, and honor the enduring legacy of those who once called it home.