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Tonan Sumi-yagura

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From the southeastern corner of Nijo Castle, the Tonan Sumi-yagura stands watch. It’s a sturdy, two-story structure. The Tonan Sumi-yagura, along with its southwestern counterpart, are the only two remaining corner watchtowers of Nijo Castle. The Tonan Sumi-yagura whispers tales of a fiery past. In 1788, a devastating fire swept through Nijo Castle, consuming many of the original watchtowers. Imagine the chaos, the desperate attempts to quell the flames as they licked at the wooden structures. The Tonan Sumi-yagura survived this inferno, standing as a testament to its resilient construction. Originally, these watchtowers served as both lookouts and armories, vital for the castle’s defense. Today, the Tonan Sumi-yagura offers a glimpse into the castle’s history. It reminds us of the constant vigilance required in a time of shoguns and samurai. As you admire the Tonan Sumi-yagura, picture the guards pacing its wooden floors, their eyes scanning the horizon for any sign of threat. They were the silent protectors of Nijo Castle, ensuring the safety of those within its walls. The Tonan Sumi-yagura stands as a survivor, a silent witness to centuries of history.

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