Philosopher. This shrine is dedicated to Yoshida Shoin, a 19th century Japanese samurai and philosopher. Shoin was from Hagi, a town known for having produced several people who contributed greatly to the mid-19th century modernization of Japan. Yoshida Shoin served as teacher, leader and mentor to these individuals. "Shokasonjuku," a wooden house on the shrine precincts, was the school building at the time. Japan was closed to the outside world in this era, and Shoin desired to stowaway with Matthew Perry in order to familiarize himself with outside countries. When his plan to do so failed, he was arrested, confined to prison and eventually executed at age 30 in 1854. Shoin is now regarded as a divine soul and one can have an audience with his spirit at this site. His physical remains rest at a Shoin Shrine in Tokyo.

Philosopher. This shrine is dedicated to Yoshida Shoin, a 19th century Japanese samurai and philosopher. Shoin was from Hagi, a town known for having produced several people who contributed greatly to the mid-19th century modernization of Japan. Yoshida Shoin served as teacher, leader and mentor to these individuals. "Shokasonjuku," a wooden house on the shrine precincts, was the school building at the time. Japan was closed to the outside world in this era, and Shoin desired to stowaway with Matthew Perry in order to familiarize himself with outside countries. When his plan to do so failed, he was arrested, confined to prison and eventually executed at age 30 in 1854. Shoin is now regarded as a divine soul and one can have an audience with his spirit at this site. His physical remains rest at a Shoin Shrine in Tokyo.

Bio by: Warrick L. Barrett