征清戦死招魂碑 War memorial

Deep within Shinagawa Park, a poignant narrative unfolds. The Sino-Japanese War Memorial, also known as 征清戦死者招魂碑, stands as a solemn tribute. It commemorates the lives lost during the Sino-Japanese War. This memorial doesn’t simply mark a historical event. It encapsulates individual stories of courage and sacrifice. The memorial was erected on November 21, 1898, thanks to the efforts of local patriots. It’s a testament to their commitment to honoring their fallen comrades. Intriguingly, two of the soldiers commemorated here perished in a later conflict. They fell during the Boxer Rebellion following the Treaty of Shimonoseki. The inscription on the front of the 征清戦死者招魂碑 reads, “Memorial to the Fallen Soldiers of the Sino-Japanese War, Written by Okura Hisashi.” The back lists the names of the fallen, a stark reminder of the human cost of war. One name etched here is Matsumae Tsugi, a prominent figure in Shinagawa. He was a successful businessman, managing a fertilizer store and a rice store. Matsumae was also a vice-chairman of the Tokyo Chamber of Commerce. Another name belongs to Sugiura San’ei, known for his writings on Shimoda. His book, “Sekiryo-shusseki,” offered the first introduction to Shimoda. Shinagawa Park itself holds historical significance. It’s located on the former site of Eitai-ji Temple, a temple abolished during the Meiji period’s religious separation orders. Established in 1591, Shinagawa Park stands as one of Japan’s first public parks. It’s a tranquil space, inviting reflection not only on the Sino-Japanese War but also on the layered history embedded within the park itself. The 征清戦死者招魂碑 within Shinagawa Park stands as more than just a memorial. It’s a portal to a time of both conflict and commemoration. It’s a place to remember the individuals whose lives were intertwined with the larger narrative of the Sino-Japanese War.