Byakkotai Grave Festival

About this event

Held on Mount Iimori in Aizuwakamatsu City, Fukushima Prefecture, the "Byakkotai Grave Festival" honors the spirits of the Byakkotai (White Tiger Force) who fell during the Boshin War at the end of the Edo period. During the memorial service, students from the Aizu High School Sword Dance Committee dedicate the "Byakkotai Sword Dance," passing down the tragedy and spirit of the Byakkotai that symbolize the samurai soul of Aizu. The site enshrines the 19 samurai of the Byakkotai 2nd Squad who committed ritual suicide on Mount Iimori after misjudging that Tsuruga Castle had fallen following fierce battles against the new government forces, as well as Byakkotai members and young samurai who died in battle in various areas. This memorial service is held every spring and autumn to commemorate the virtues of the Byakkotai who sacrificed their lives fighting during Aizu's crisis and to pass on the spirit of the Aizu samurai. The graveside ritual is held for about 1 hour starting around 10:30, followed by the dedication of the Byakkotai Sword Dance for about 20 minutes from around 11:20. However, times may vary, so arriving with plenty of time to spare is recommended.

Venue

Mausoleum of the Nineteen Byakkotai Warriors

155 Takizawa, Oaza Yahata, Ikki-machi, Aizuwakamatsu, Fukushima 965-0003