Sagamihara City Designates “Shindo no Ichirizuka” as a Cultural Property, Preserving a Piece of Historical Road Network
Sagamihara, Kanagawa Prefecture – Sagamihara City has officially designated the “Shindo no Ichirizuka” (新戸の一里塚) as a city-designated cultural property, a significant announcement made on September 1st, 2025. This designation underscores the historical importance of this landmark, which stands as a testament to the meticulously planned road infrastructure of Japan’s Edo period.
The “Shindo no Ichirizuka” is a relic of the historical Tokaido Road, one of the five main roads of the Edo shogunate, connecting Edo (present-day Tokyo) with Kyoto. “Ichirizuka” (一里塚) were mound-like markers placed at one ri (approximately 3.9 kilometers) intervals along these major highways. They served as crucial navigational aids for travelers, indicating distances and providing resting points.
Located in the Shindo district of Sagamihara City, this particular Ichirizuka is a well-preserved example of these historical markers. Its designation as a cultural property by Sagamihara City signifies a commitment to the preservation and appreciation of this tangible link to Japan’s past. The City of Sagamihara recognizes the value of Shindo no Ichirizuka not only as a historical monument but also as an educational resource that allows current and future generations to connect with the history of travel and communication in Japan.
The announcement, published at 15:05 on September 1st, 2025, marks the culmination of efforts to formally recognize and protect this valuable piece of heritage. The designation is expected to lead to further research, conservation efforts, and potentially increased public awareness and access to the site, allowing more people to appreciate its historical significance.
The “Shindo no Ichirizuka” offers a fascinating glimpse into a bygone era, reminding us of the infrastructure that facilitated trade, communication, and the movement of people across Japan centuries ago. Sagamihara City’s proactive step in preserving this landmark ensures that this historical marker will continue to stand as a silent witness to the passage of time, contributing to the rich cultural tapestry of the region.
AI has delivered the news.
The answer to the following question is obtained from Google Gemini.
相模原市 published ’49.新戸の一里塚（しんどのいちりづか）’ at 2025-09-01 15:05. Please write a detailed article about this news in a polite tone with relevant information. Please reply in English with the article only.