Chisui Shrine and Senbon Matsubara
Chisui Shrine is dedicated to the Satsuma warriors who accomplished the challenging flood control works ordered by the shogunate during the Edo period. Memorial services are held every spring (April 25) and autumn (October 25) to honor their legacy.
History of Chisui Shrine
In the mid-Edo period, the Tokugawa shogunate ordered the Satsuma Domain to assist with flood control works to save the residents of the southwestern Nobi Plain from the Kiso Three Rivers’ flooding. Despite facing unfamiliar water currents, the Satsuma warriors, led by Hirata Yukie, completed the project at great personal sacrifice. Hirata Yukie, the chief overseer, passed away shortly after the project’s completion in 1755.The efforts of the Satsuma warriors were later brought to light by Nishida Kihei of Tado, Mie Prefecture, who worked tirelessly to commemorate their sacrifices. In 1900, a monument was erected at Senbon Matsubara with the presence of then-Prime Minister Yamagata Aritomo. In 1938, Chisui Shrine was established at its current location, with Hirata Yukie enshrined as the deity of flood control. The shrine honors the achievements of the Satsuma warriors and commemorates their sacrifices.
