Grave of Nakaoka Shintaro

The Grave of Nakaoka Shintaro is located within the grounds of Kyoto Ryozen Gokoku Shrine, immediately beside the grave of his close ally Sakamoto Ryoma.

Nakaoka was one of the leading political activists of the late Edo period and worked tirelessly alongside Ryoma to promote cooperation between the Satsuma and Choshu domains. After both men were attacked at the Omiya Inn in Kyoto in 1867, Nakaoka succumbed to his wounds two days later.

Today, the neighboring graves symbolize the partnership between two men whose efforts helped pave the way for the Meiji Restoration.

History

Nakaoka Shintaro (1838–1867) was born in Tosa Domain and became one of the most influential imperial loyalists of the Bakumatsu period.

After joining the Tosa Loyalist Party, he became active in Kyoto, where he devoted himself to building alliances among anti-shogunate forces. Working closely with Sakamoto Ryoma, he played a crucial role behind the scenes in bringing about the Satsuma–Choshu Alliance, one of the turning points leading to the Meiji Restoration.

He also organized the Rikuentai, a military organization supporting the imperial cause. On December 10, 1867 (November 15 under the old calendar), he was attacked alongside Ryoma at the Omiya Inn. While Ryoma died that night, Nakaoka survived briefly before passing away two days later.

Following the Meiji Restoration, he was reburied on Mount Ryozen, where his grave now stands beside Ryoma’s.

Highlights

Beside Sakamoto Ryoma

The neighboring graves reflect the lifelong partnership between two of the Restoration’s greatest figures.

Key Architect of the Satsuma–Choshu Alliance

Although less internationally known than Ryoma, Nakaoka made indispensable contributions to Japan’s political transformation.

One of Ryozen’s Most Visited Graves

His grave is among the most important sites within Kyoto Ryozen Gokoku Shrine.

Scenic Hillside Setting

Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Kyoto while paying their respects.

Symbol of the Meiji Restoration

The two adjacent graves have become an enduring symbol of cooperation and dedication to national reform.

Visit Tips

Be sure to visit both Nakaoka Shintaro’s and Sakamoto Ryoma’s graves together. Their side-by-side resting places reflect the partnership that helped change the course of Japanese history.

The nearby Ryozen Museum of History provides additional exhibits about Nakaoka’s life and the political events that led to the Meiji Restoration.