Graves of Nineteen Byakko Corps Members and a View of the Castle Town from the Site of Self-Immolation
About this spot
This mountain is known as the tragic site where young members of the Byakko Corps' Second Platoon took their own lives, mistaking the fires burning in the castle town for the fall of Tsuruga Castle during the Boshin War. On the mountainside, the graves of nineteen Byakko soldiers stand in a row, with the aroma of incense smoke never ceasing. From the site of self-immolation, you can see a sweeping view of Aizu-Wakamatsu's cityscape and the direction of Tsuruga Castle—the very landscape those 16- to 17-year-old boys beheld in their final moments, which will move visitors' hearts deeply. Throughout the grounds are monuments gifted from Rome and a German memorial, testament to how the tale of the Byakko Corps spread overseas; history enthusiasts will find no shortage of things to see. The approach's stone steps number about 180, but a paid moving walkway (slope conveyor) is also available.
Tips
From JR Aizu-Wakamatsu Station, take the circular sightseeing bus "Akabe" or "Haikalasan" and get off at Iimori Mountain Base stop. Parking lots for souvenir shops are available near the approach entrance. If walking up the stone steps, wear comfortable, sturdy shoes. The gravesites are places of remembrance; visit quietly and respectfully.
Best time to visit
Allow about 1 hour. Early morning before tour buses arrive is quietest, and the city views are clearest in the morning light.
Access & map
〒965-0003 Fukushima Prefecture, Aizu-Wakamatsu City, Ikkeimachi Okaza Hachiman Yamato Mountain Otsu, Iimori Mountain
Model course featuring this spot
Aizu-Wakamatsu: Iimori Mountain Sazaedo and Nisshinkan - Traces of the Byakko Corps
Fukushima
Explore features & model courses
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