富士見櫓 Stele

Gazing up at the Fujimi Yagura, also known as the 富士見櫓 Stele, did you know it once offered a breathtaking view of Mount Fuji? Here at the Imperial Palace East Garden in Tokyo, the Fujimi Yagura, or “Mt. Fuji View Watchtower,” stands as a testament to Edo-era resilience. Built in 1659, this three-storied keep replaced a previous watchtower destroyed in the great Meireki fire of 1657. This fire ravaged Edo Castle and much of the surrounding city. The Fujimi Yagura then became a symbol of the castle’s rebirth. It offered a strategic vantage point and served as a substitute for the main keep. Imagine the shogun, standing here, watching fireworks displays over Ryogoku and the shimmering expanse of Tokyo Bay. The Fujimi Yagura is one of only three keeps remaining from the original nineteen that once guarded Edo Castle. Its unique octagonal shape allows for a wide view, making it a vital defensive structure. The name 富士見櫓, meaning “Mount Fuji View,” speaks to its original purpose. From this spot, one could gaze upon the majestic Mount Fuji, 100 kilometers away. While the modern skyline now obscures that view, the name remains, whispering tales of a time when nature’s grandeur met the shogun’s might. Today, the Fujimi Yagura is a treasured relic of the past. It stands within the Imperial Palace East Garden, a place where history comes alive. Its sturdy structure has even withstood the Great Kanto Earthquake, though it required repairs using some original materials. As you stand before this imposing structure, let its resilience and rich history transport you back to the days of the shogunate. The Fujimi Yagura, a steadfast guardian, a silent storyteller, and a lasting symbol of Edo’s enduring spirit.