【Kyoto History Walk】In the Footsteps of Sakamoto Ryoma: A Bakumatsu Hero’s Guide

Hello everyone! Welcome to your travel guide for discovering the rich samurai history of Kyoto.

During the Bakumatsu period (the chaotic final days of the Tokugawa Shogunate), Kyoto was the political heart of Japan. Among the many revolutionaries who shaped modern Japan, none is more iconic than Sakamoto Ryoma (坂本龍馬).

In this guide, we’ll follow Ryoma’s dramatic life story across Kyoto—from his narrow escape at Teradaya to his final resting place overlooking the city!

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1. The Assassination Attempt Scene: Teradaya Inn (Fushimi)

Start your journey in Fushimi, Kyoto’s famous sake-brewing district, at Teradaya Inn. In 1866, Ryoma was ambushed here by Shogunate officers. His future wife, Oryo, famously rushed out of the bath naked to warn Ryoma, allowing him to escape.

• Access: 5-min walk from Chushojima Station (Keihan Line)
• Highlights: View bullet holes and sword marks on wooden pillars, and see the historic bathhouse.

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2. Headquarter & Final Days: Suya & Omiya Monument

Moving to downtown Kyoto (Kawaramachi / Sanjo area), you will find the places where Ryoma spent his final months.

① Suya (Kaientai Kyoto Headquarters)

A historic timber store along Sanjo Kiyamachi. Ryoma used the 2nd floor as a hideout and headquarters for Kaientai, Japan’s first modern trading company.

② Omiya Monument (Site of Assassination)

Located on busy Kawaramachi Street stands a stone monument marking Omiya Inn. On November 15, 1867, his 33rd birthday, Ryoma was tragically assassinated here alongside his ally Nakaoka Shintaro.

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3. Final Resting Place: Kyoto Ryozen Gokoku Shrine

Conclude your walk in the eastern hills of Higashiyama at Kyoto Ryozen Gokoku Shrine.

High on the hillside, Sakamoto Ryoma and Nakaoka Shintaro rest side-by-side. Statues of the two heroes stand beside their graves, offering a breathtaking panoramic view over the city of Kyoto.

Right next to the shrine, the Ryozen Museum of History displays authentic samurai swords, personal letters, and Bakumatsu artifacts.

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4. Travel Tips for History Enthusiasts

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5. Summary

Sakamoto Ryoma’s vision and passion helped usher Japan into a modern era. Walking through these historical sites offers a unique and unforgettable way to connect with Kyoto’s samurai past!