Fujikawashuku
Role of the Tokaido Post Stations
When Tokugawa Ieyasu gained control of the nation in 1601, he understood that a rapid flow of information was essential to governing the entire country, and so began development of a highway stretching some 495 kilometers between Nihonbashi in Edo (Tokyo) and Sanjo Ohashi in Kyoto. Along the route were 53 stopover points where travelers could rest and find lodging. These post stations also served as hubs for the relaying of official packages and communications. Fujikawa was the 37th post station, located about 310 kilometers from Edo.
Bobana, Gateways to the Post Stations
The entrances to these Edo period post stations featured gates called bobana, which clearly delineated the town from the road. Guards were posted at each gate to maintain order along the route and ensure the safety of travelers. The Shogunate took steps to crack down on gangs that prowled the roads, terrorizing and committing crimes against travelers and pack horse operators. In this way, they were able to maintain public safety and order.
The ukiyo-e print below shows a delegation presenting horses from the Shogunate to the Imperial Court being greeted by government officials as they arrive at Fujikawa’s bobana circa 1833 or 1834. The photo on the lower right was taken in 1872, west of the area around the Higashi-Bobana. Comparing the past and present scenery presents a wonderful opportunity to understand the unique characteristics of the town.
Okazaki Castle Outer Moat Enclosure >
Fujikawashuku
Role of the Tokaido Post Stations
When Tokugawa Ieyasu gained control of the nation in 1601, he understood that a rapid flow of information was essential to governing the entire country, and so began development of a highway stretching some 495 kilometers between Nihonbashi in Edo (Tokyo) and Sanjo Ohashi in Kyoto. Along the route were 53 stopover points where travelers could rest and find lodging. These post stations also served as hubs for the relaying of official packages and communications. Fujikawa was the 37th post station, located about 310 kilometers from Edo.
Bobana, Gateways to the Post Stations
The entrances to these Edo period post stations featured gates called bobana, which clearly delineated the town from the road. Guards were posted at each gate to maintain order along the route and ensure the safety of travelers. The Shogunate took steps to crack down on gangs that prowled the roads, terrorizing and committing crimes against travelers and pack horse operators. In this way, they were able to maintain public safety and order.
The ukiyo-e print below shows a delegation presenting horses from the Shogunate to the Imperial Court being greeted by government officials as they arrive at Fujikawa’s bobana circa 1833 or 1834. The photo on the lower right was taken in 1872, west of the area around the Higashi-Bobana. Comparing the past and present scenery presents a wonderful opportunity to understand the unique characteristics of the town.