Tomb of the Nineteen Byakkotai
Phone:0242-39-1251 (会津若松市観光課)
Aizu-Wakamatsu City, Ikkimachi Yahata, Bentenshita
During the Boshin War, 20 boys 16 and 17 years old organized into the Byakkotai Shi Chu Ni Bantai (White Tiger Corps; Second Squad) and after the Battle of Tonokuchihara they beat a retreat through a passageway in Takizawa Pass. When they arrived at Iimoriyama they saw black smoking rising from Tsuruga Castle and mistakenly thought, "The castle has fallen and now and we must commit suicide for the honor of our master."
Of the 20 youths, Iinuma Sadakichi was the lone survivor, and he spread the story of the loyalty and fatal doom of the White Tiger Corps to masses of people so they would know about it.
Twice a year, in spring and autumn, a memorial service is held with a sword dance, to comfort the spirits of the dedicated Byakkotai.
The store details
Name | Tomb of the Nineteen Byakkotai |
---|---|
Address | Aizu-Wakamatsu City, Ikkimachi Yahata, Bentenshita |
TEL | 0242-39-1251 (Aizu-Wakamatsu City Tourism Division) |
Parking | Yes |
Access | A 15-minute drive from Aizu-Wakamatsu IC |