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Toujin Tomb: A Memorial of History and Peace

Explore the Toujin Tomb in Ishigaki: a historical site commemorating Chinese laborers and promoting peace and reflection.

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The Toujin Tomb in Ishigaki, Okinawa, is a Chinese-style memorial dedicated to Chinese laborers who died in the 19th century following a revolt on the ship Robert Bowne. The tomb serves as a reminder of a tragic event and a symbol of peace.

A brief summary to Toujin Tomb

Local tips

  • Take time to reflect on the history and significance of the site, considering the events that led to its creation.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Kannonzaki Lighthouse for scenic views of the coastline.
  • Consider visiting the American Servicemen's Memorial nearby, offering a further perspective on the island's history.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Ishigaki Airport, take a bus bound for the city center. From the Ishigaki Bus Terminal, transfer to the Kabira Resort Line bus. Ride the bus to the Toujin Tomb bus stop. The bus ride from the terminal takes approximately 15 minutes. Bus fares within Ishigaki City cost around ¥330-¥490. A 1-day pass costs ¥1000, and a 5-day pass costs ¥2000.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available from both Ishigaki Airport and the city center. From Ishigaki Airport to the Toujin Tomb area, expect to pay around ¥4,500. From Ishigaki Port, a taxi will cost approximately ¥3,500. The journey takes approximately 15-25 minutes, depending on traffic. Taxi fares are metered. Booking in advance is recommended.

  • Driving

    From Ishigaki Airport, follow the main roads towards Ishigaki City, then take the coastal road west towards Kabira. The Toujin Tomb is located off the main highway, approximately 45 minutes from the airport and 15 minutes from the city center. Look for signs indicating 'Tang People's Tomb' on the right side of the road. Parking is available near the tomb.

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Discover more about Toujin Tomb

The Toujin Tomb, located in Arakawa, Ishigaki, Okinawa, is a poignant memorial that reflects a dark chapter in history and a desire for reconciliation. The tomb commemorates the 128 Chinese laborers who perished on Ishigaki Island following the Robert Bowne Incident in 1852. These laborers, en route from Xiamen, China, to California, revolted against their harsh treatment aboard the American merchant ship Robert Bowne. After the ship ran aground off the coast of Ishigaki Island, the laborers landed on the island. Some were killed during recapture attempts by British and American forces, while others died from disease and suicide while detained on the island. In 1971, the Toujin Tomb was erected to honor these victims, with donations from citizens, overseas Chinese, and the Taiwanese government. The tomb's architecture features a traditional Chinese style, adorned with dragons and phoenixes. The memorial includes inscriptions detailing the events, with some calligraphy contributed by Chiang Kai-shek. Close to the Toujin Tomb is another memorial, the American Servicemen's Memorial, dedicated to three U.S. airmen captured and killed on Ishigaki during World War II. The Toujin Tomb stands as a place for reflection on the past and a symbol of hope for peace.

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