Takasugi Shinsaku's Birthplace

高杉晋作誕生地

A highly-influential samurai who trained at the Shoka Sonjuku. He was the first to create a militia that recruited commoners that became known as the Kiheitai. After witnessing the defeat of his domain by Western powers, he pushed for modernization in the military, giving rifles to his Kiheitai soldiers. The simple belief that modernization would benefit Japan evolved into anti-Tokugawa sentiment as the Tokugawa actively opposed modernizing. He and his army won a civil war in the Choshu Domain to oust supporters of the Tokugawa and fended off direct attempts by the Tokugawa to regain control with weapons he'd imported from abroad. Other domains took note and began siding with the Choshu having proven their superiority. Although he died of tuberculosis in 1867, his leadership created the momentum that toppled the bakufu the following year. The house remains with exhibits facing outside for visitors (you cannot step into the house). The well outside is where he was bathed after his birth.

Hours

Closed · opens 9 am

Weekly hours

Mon	9 am–5 pm
Tue	9 am–5 pm
Wed	9 am–5 pm
Thu	9 am–5 pm
Fri	9 am–5 pm
Sat	9 am–5 pm
Sun	9 am–5 pm

Price

¥100