【Kyoto History Guide】In the Footsteps of Shinsengumi: Kyoto’s Legendary Samurai
Hello everyone! Welcome to your travel guide for exploring Japan’s incredible samurai history.
During the turbulent Bakumatsu period, the Shinsengumi was a special samurai police force formed to maintain order in Kyoto. Led by Kondo Isami, Hijikata Toshizo, and Okita Soji, their intense loyalty and sword fighting skills made them legends.
In this guide, we’ll visit key historical sites in Kyoto where the Shinsengumi lived, trained, and fought!
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1. The Birthplace: Mibu-dera Temple & Yagi House
In 1863, the Shinsengumi established their very first headquarters in the Mibu district of central Kyoto.
① Yagi Residence (Original Headquarters)
The actual house where Kondo, Hijikata, and Okita lived. Visitors can still see original sword cuts on the wooden pillars from internal conflicts inside the house.
② Mibu-dera Temple
The temple grounds served as the Shinsengumi’s military training field. Inside lies Mibu-zuka, housing a bronze bust of Commander Kondo Isami and graves of fallen warriors.
📍 Map: Mibu-dera Temple Area
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2. The Raid That Made Them Famous: Ikedaya Incident Site
In 1864, the Shinsengumi launched a surprise raid on anti-Shogunate revolutionaries hiding at the Ikedaya Inn, catapulting the group to national fame overnight.
Located on Sanjo Street, the site of the former inn is marked by a historic stone monument (currently operating as an izakaya restaurant).
📍 Map: Ikedaya Incident Site (Sanjo)
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3. Tragedy of Internal Betrayal: Aburanokoji Street
In 1867, the Shinsengumi ambushed Ito Kashitaro and a breakaway faction during the “Aburanokoji Incident.”
Renowned captain Saito Hajime played a crucial role as a undercover spy during this event. A quiet stone monument stands near Aburanokoji-Kitzuyabashi marking the site of the Shinsengumi’s last major internal conflict.
📍 Map: Aburanokoji Incident Site
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4. Travel Tips for Shinsengumi Fans
💡 Travel Advice
- Nishi Hongan-ji Temple: Served as the Shinsengumi’s second headquarters when Mibu became too small for their growing force.
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5. Summary
United under the flag of “Makoto” (Sincerity), the swordmasters of the Shinsengumi lived and died by their samurai code in Kyoto. Walk in their footsteps and feel the intense history of late-19th-century Japan!
