Takayama: Birthplace of Christian Feudal Lord Ukon Takayama
Ukon (named Hikogoro as a child) spent his childhood in Takayama. He succeeded his father Tomoteru Takayama (also known as Hidanokami, a name which means the governor of Hida Province) to become lord of Takatsuki Castle and Akashi Castle (also known as Funage Castle, 60,000 koku of land).
Refusing to comply with Hideyoshi Tokugawa's order to expel all missionaries, Ukon chose the path of Christian faith. Though he lived for some time as a guest general of the Maeda Clan, he died in Manila in February of 1615 around the age of 63 after Ieyasu Tokugawa's order to expel all Christians from the country.
In Takayama remains the site of Takayama Castle, the site of an Edo-period street bulletin board, and two groups of hidden graves of Christians. A monument marking Ukon's birthplace has been erected at the location said to be the site of his mansion.
The "Ukon Fest" held in Takayama concludes with a candlelit night in the terraced rice fields.
Enjoy to your heart's content the world blanketed in quiet stillness.
