“Lost cities intrigue me,” a fellow traveler mused, gazing thoughtfully at a nondescript patch of ground. “Imagine the secrets buried beneath our feet.” That traveler’s words perfectly capture the essence of the 近江大津宮錦織遺跡 第八地点, a designated historical site right here in Otsu. This seemingly ordinary plot of land holds the remnants of a grand palace, the 近江大津宮, a short-lived capital of Japan from 667 to 672 AD. Emperor Tenji, a visionary ruler, chose this strategic location on the shores of Lake Biwa. He sought to strengthen the nation’s defenses after a crushing defeat against the Tang Dynasty and Silla in the Battle of Baekgang.
Emperor Tenji envisioned a grand capital. He oversaw the construction of the 近江大津宮, a palace complex reflecting the latest architectural trends from Tang China. He instituted legal reforms, laying the groundwork for Japan’s first legal code, the Omi Code. He also established Japan’s first water clock, a testament to his interest in adopting advanced technology. However, fate had other plans. Emperor Tenji passed away just five years after the capital’s establishment. His son, Prince Otomo, inherited the throne but faced formidable opposition. After a fierce power struggle, known as the Jinshin War, Prince Otomo was defeated and took his own life. The victorious Emperor Tenmu, Tenji’s brother, abandoned the 近江大津宮 and moved the capital back to Asuka.
For over a millennium, the 近江大津宮 lay hidden, swallowed by time and forgotten by history. However, in 1974, archaeological excavations in a residential area of Nishikori unearthed its secrets. Thirteen pillar holes, remnants of a grand south gate, emerged from the earth. Artifacts from the period, including earthenware and roof tiles, painted a vivid picture of a bustling capital. Today, while the physical remains of the palace may be limited, the 近江大津宮錦織遺跡 第八地点 serves as a poignant reminder of a pivotal moment in Japanese history. It speaks of a ruler’s ambition, a dynasty’s fall, and a city’s ephemeral glory. It stands as a testament to the enduring power of history, hidden beneath our feet, waiting to be rediscovered.