Hello from Takayama city!
A visit to Takayama Jinya is a must for history buffs interested in Japanese history and Takayama’s role during the Edo era, but be sure to also make time to see the bronze statue standing just outside the grounds.
The statue depicts Yamaoka Tesshu, also known as Yamaoke Tetsutaro. This samurai played a key role during a turbulent time in Japanese history. After 260 years, the Edo shogunate was coming to an end, and Japan was on the brink of becoming a modern nation. The new Meiji government forces, led by Saigo Takamori, were closing in on Edo Castle with plans for a full military assault, which would lead to the city of Edo (present-day Tokyo) being consumed by war.
It was Yamaoka Tesshu who stepped in, and through direct talks with Saigo Takamori, helped broker a peaceful surrender of Edo Castle. This remains a rare moment in world history where a major conflict was resolved through conversation rather than combat.
So what is this legendary samurai’s connection to Takayama? Although Tesshu was born in Tokyo, he spent his formative years right here in Takayama as his father worked at Takayama Jinya. The statue of Yamaoka Tesshu captures him as a young man, just as he was while living in Takayama.
Both Takayama Jinya and the statue of Yamaoka Tesshu are located about 2 minutes on foot from THE MACHIYA HOTEL TAKAYAMA. For more recommendations on historical spots to add to your Takayama itinerary, be sure to ask our front desk staff!
