Fuwa no Seki, Mountain checkpoint in Fuwa district, Japan
Fuwa no Seki is a former mountain checkpoint located at a strategic point between eastern and western Japan in Fuwa district. The site used natural terrain to monitor traffic through the mountainous landscape of Gifu Prefecture.
The checkpoint was established in 673 by Emperor Tenmu to regulate travel and prevent potential rebellions across different regions. It played an important role in maintaining control over population movement throughout the feudal period.
The checkpoint represents a system that carefully controlled who could travel and where people could move during Japan's feudal period. Visitors can see how travelers were inspected and what permits they needed to pass through.
Modern roads and railway lines follow the course of the historic pass, making the site easily accessible to visitors. You can explore the old Nakasendo Road route, which still winds through the mountain area.
Pine trees along the historic Nakasendo Road mark the path where countless travelers crossed this mountain pass over centuries. These trees stand on the same route that merchants, pilgrims, and soldiers used during the feudal period.
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