Ever heard of Kozukappara Execution Grounds? It’s right here in Minami-Senju.
Minami-Senju a neighborhood in Arakawa City Tokyo holds a fascinating blend of old and new. It’s known for its unique architecture a mix of traditional wooden houses and modern buildings. But Minami-Senju’s history is far more complex than its pretty streets suggest.
For centuries this area was the site of Kozukappara Execution Grounds. From 1650 to 1873 the Shogunate executed criminals here. It’s estimated that over 200000 people were executed at Kozukappara. The sheer scale of this is staggering. Imagine the lives lost the suffering endured. This grim history is a significant part of Minami-Senju’s identity.
Medical students and doctors even used the grounds. They studied anatomy by dissecting the executed bodies. This practice was stopped during the Meiji period. Japan wanted to make equal treaties with Western powers. Stopping executions was part of that strategy. Today much of the execution grounds lies under railway tracks. A grim reminder of the past.
Next to the grounds stands Enmeiji Temple. Its history is intertwined with Kozukappara. The temple buried the executed. Sometimes the bodies were only lightly covered. Birds and animals would often pick at the remains. A large Buddha statue called the Kubikiri Jizo or Neck Chop Jizo stands in the temple compound. It was erected in 1741 to offer solace to the executed.
Minami-Senju offers a compelling juxtaposition. It has a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere. You can explore traditional markets sample street food and find handcrafted souvenirs. The area also has parks and public spaces. They offer peaceful retreats from the city’s bustle. But always remember the darker side of its past. The whispers of Kozukappara linger here. They are a reminder of a history both brutal and unforgettable.