Following the Footsteps of Shishi in the Late Tokugawa Shogunate, "Ryoma-zaka"

Standing in the back alleys of Kyoto is "Ryoma-zaka". These steep stone steps still tell the sad history of the bodies of Ryoma Sakamoto and Shintaro Nakaoka being carried here in November of the third year of the Keio era (1867).

Remembering the Final Moments of Shishi

Ryoma-zaka is a narrow part of the alley that leads from Ninen-zaka to Gokoku Shrine. In the past, the shishi of the Kaientai (Naval expeditionary force) and the Shokasonjuku (Patriotic school) carried the coffins of two individuals up this narrow slope. Their heavy footsteps seem to be etched on the cobblestones to this day.

Midway up the slope, the graves of Choshu clan samurais are lined up, and at the top, Gokoku Shrine conducts memorial services for the deceased shishi. As if watching over the final path of the shishi, Ryoma-zaka stands in solemnity.

Step by Step, Pondering on History

While climbing Ryoma-zaka, why not try feeling the breath of the late Tokugawa shogunate? The steep stone steps will test your stamina, but by contemplating historical facts, you will surely make new discoveries.

The unchanged scenery of Ryoma-zaka still holds the passion of the shishi. Why not climb this slope step by step, pondering on history, and feel the enthusiasm of the shishi?