Shokasonjuku (松下村塾)

Overview

Shokasonjuku was a private academy in Hagi Castle Town presided over by Yoshida Shoin, renowned for fostering many patriots during the late Edo period. Shoin, ordered by the feudal lord, was confined to Edo in 1855, but established Shokasonjuku the following year. He aimed to cultivate individuals with purpose, not just knowledge, teaching his students, "Learning is to learn how to be a person." Many patriots who later led the Meiji Restoration, including Takasugi Shinsaku, Ito Hirobumi, and Yamagata Aritomo, gathered at Shokasonjuku. Recognized for its significant contribution to Japan's modernization, Shokasonjuku is a World Heritage site. Located on the grounds of Shoin Shrine, only the exterior is currently open to the public. Experience the atmosphere of the time by seeing the original building and feeling the passion of Shoin and his students. Many historical structures, such as Shoin Shrine, Shoin's former confinement residence, and the ruins of Hagi Castle, are nearby and worth visiting. It's a place enjoyable for everyone, not just history buffs. Be sure to visit!