Pix4Japan: Ancient Giants

2024-10-15

Ancient Giants

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Kyū-Tōkaidō: A 17th-Century Path Lined with Ancient Giants
旧東海道：江戸時代に植えられた杉並木の道

The Tokaido “Highway” was a vital part of a network of mountain footpaths that connected the domains of feudal lords to the Shogunate in Edo (modern-day Tokyo). Spanning 492 kilometers, the Tokaido featured 53 designated stations, where weary travelers could find rest at inns, and horses could be fed and watered. These stations also played a crucial role in facilitating mail and courier services between Kyoto and Edo.

Originally established as a military route, the Tokaido evolved into a key thoroughfare by 1601. That year, the Shogunate mandated the construction of inns along the route to accommodate the increased traffic stemming from the alternate attendance system (sankin-kotai). This policy required over 300 feudal lords and their entourages—ranging from 60 to 300 retainers—to travel to and from Edo every year, creating a steady flow of people along the road.

To enhance the journey, the Shogunate ordered the planting of more than 400 cedar trees along both sides of this section of the Tokaido. These majestic trees provided travelers with cool shade during the intense summer heat and shelter from biting winds and snow in winter. In times of heavy snowfall, they also served as essential markers, helping travelers navigate the obscured path.

While there were once over 1,000 trees lining the route, modernization in 1904 led to the construction of a new road, which replaced portions of the ancient trail. To fund the construction, many of the cedar and pine trees were felled and sold. Today, approximately 400 trees remain, their towering forms reaching heights of 30 to 40 meters. At roughly 350 years old, these ancient giants stand as living witnesses to history. Sections of the Tokaido where these trees still thrive have been designated as national treasures, ensuring their preservation for generations to come.