Guida
The Ashigara Sekisho Site (Ashigara Checkpoint) is a historical location that once functioned as a vital transport hub in Japan. Situated at the foot of Mt. Fuji, the site allows visitors to feel the historical significance of the ancient highways within a lush, natural environment. Today, it is preserved as a historical site where visitors can experience the concept of the 'Sekisho' (checkpoint system) and understand its geographical importance in Japanese history.
This region has played an extremely important role throughout history. It is particularly well-known for its deep connections to Minamoto no Yoritomo, the founder of the Kamakura Shogunate. Local place names like 'Komado' carry traces of this era, with records suggesting Yoritomo visited the area for 'Fuji no Makigari' (hunting at the foot of Mt. Fuji). The Ashigara Pass area served as a critical base for managing the movement of goods and people, embodying the cultural background of Japan's defense and governance systems during the era of the samurai.
The landscape surrounding the Ashigara Sekisho site is steeped in history. While there are no large-scale intact buildings remaining, the topography and scenery itself are the main attractions, allowing visitors to visualize how the checkpoint once functioned. Additionally, the nearby 'Komado Wind Cave' (Komado Fuka) is a lava tube formed by volcanic activity from Mt. Fuji, offering a unique chance to experience both natural wonders and historical context simultaneously. The name 'Komado' is even said to originate from the time Minamoto no Yoritomo gathered and grazed horses in the area, adding another layer of historical intrigue.
The Ashigara area reveals different faces throughout the seasons. In the season of fresh greenery, the lush vegetation at the foot of Mt. Fuji is particularly beautiful, making it a refreshing stop during a drive. In autumn, the changing colors of the leaves add a vibrant touch to the historical scenery. As this is an open historical site without specific operating hours, visiting during daylight hours is recommended to better observe the terrain and the surrounding landscape.
The primary experience here is a 'historical stroll' through a serene environment. Walking while imagining the movement of ancient travelers offers a precious opportunity to learn about Japan's old highway culture. Furthermore, nearby facilities such as the 'Ashigara Service Area (EXPASA Ashigara)' allow you to blend modern convenience with historical exploration, offering a chance to enjoy local gourmet food and souvenirs during your road trip.
There are many attractive spots near the Ashigara Sekisho site. For those interested in natural sciences, the 'Komado Wind Cave' is a perfect destination. For history enthusiasts, this area serves as an important gateway to the Izu Peninsula area, which includes famous sites like Izu Shuzenji Temple. These locations are highly valuable as part of a travel route to deeply understand the history of the Japanese samurai.
When visiting this historical site, we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and clothing suitable for light activity. Since you may be observing natural terrain with slight slopes, sturdy sneakers are ideal. While many nearby facilities like service areas accept cashless payments, it is wise to carry some cash just in case. Please respect the historical site by not littering and following local rules to preserve the natural and historical environment.