[For Seniors] Saigō Takamori Quiz: An Exciting Intermediate-Level Quiz

tsun

Beside the statue of Takamori Saigo standing in Ueno Park is a statue of a Satsuma dog named Tsun, nestled close to him. Takamori Saigo was known as a great dog lover and kept many dogs throughout his life, but among them he was especially fond of Tsun, a female dog who accompanied him on rabbit hunts.

caretaker government

While the Iwakura Mission—headed by Iwakura Tomomi as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary—was away from Japan for an extended period to study Western systems and cultures, Saigō Takamori, Itagaki Taisuke, and others remained at home to administer national affairs. This government is called the “Caretaker Government.” During the mission’s absence, they implemented a series of key modernization policies, including the promulgation of the Education System Order and the establishment of the Conscription Ordinance.

Amami Oshima

In 1858, when Shimazu Nariakira—his lord and benefactor—died suddenly, Saigō Takamori fell into despair and attempted suicide by drowning together with Gesshō. However, only Saigō miraculously survived. Thereafter, to escape the shogunate’s harsh pursuit, he was ordered by his domain to go into hiding on Amami Ōshima, which effectively served as a sentence of exile to a remote island.

The Political Upheaval of 1873 (Meiji 6)

In 1873 (Meiji 6), Saigō Takamori, Itagaki Taisuke, and others who advocated for a punitive expedition to Korea clashed fiercely with Ōkubo Toshimichi, Iwakura Tomomi, and others who argued that domestic politics should take priority. As a result, Saigō and his allies’ views were rejected, and many bureaucrats and military officers, led by them, resigned from their government posts and left office. This split among the government leadership and mass resignations are known as the “Political Upheaval of 1873” (Meiji Six Coup).

Shiroyama

Shiroyama in Kagoshima was the site of the final fierce battle of the Satsuma Rebellion. In 1877, driven into a corner by government forces, Saigō Takamori took his own life there, bringing his tumultuous life to an end. Today, Shiroyama has been developed as a park, and features remain such as a bronze statue of Saigō Takamori and the cave where he spent his final moments.

Revere Heaven, Love People

Keiten Aijin means “Revere Heaven and love people.” It was favored by Takamori Saigō as his motto, and he is known for leaving many calligraphic works of it. As a phrase that well reflects Saigō’s magnanimous and warm character and philosophy, it remains beloved today by many and is one reason he continues to be respected. It is a wonderful saying that resonates as a fundamental principle for human relationships and a guide for living.

Shimazu Nariakira

Shimazu Nariakira was the 11th lord of the Satsuma Domain and the person who discovered and greatly promoted Saigo Takamori. Nariakira was known as a highly enlightened ruler who adopted advanced Western technologies. He highly valued the talent of Saigo, who came from a low social status, and entrusted him with important tasks such as gathering information in Edo. Saigo, in turn, deeply and sincerely revered Nariakira, and their bond was so strong that when Nariakira died suddenly, Saigo even considered following him in death.