Today, there was exciting news. The highly popular drama series SHOGUN won the Golden Globe Awards— not just one, but four! I remember some of the guests I welcomed last year were enthusiastic about telling me how great the series is, especially since it had just won an Emmy Award. They were absolutely thrilled to visit Shizuoka, the place where the real Shogun, Tokugawa Ieyasu, once lived. By the way, Tokugawa Ieyasu is said to have been the inspiration for the character that Golden Globe winner Sanada Hiroyuki portrayed in the series.
If you are interested in the Shogun, I truly recommend visiting Shizuoka. The city has many historic sites related to him.
For example, Sumpu Castle Park was once the site of his castle. Today, you can see the ruins of the main tower, which was said to be even larger than Edo Castle in Tokyo at that time. There are also turrets and a gate that have been rebuilt using traditional architectural techniques from 400 years ago.
Kunozan Toshogu Shrine is also well-known because it enshrines Tokugawa Ieyasu. After his passing, his son buried him at the shrine. The buildings there are beautifully decorated with lacquer and feature many skillful carvings. The main building of the shrine is designated as a national treasure.
I was born and raised in this town, so Tokugawa Ieyasu has always been a familiar presence to me. It would be my great pleasure to show you around and share his legacy in the area.
Akane
