Tochimoto Sekisho (Checkpoint)

Overview

Tochimoto Sekisho was a vital checkpoint during the Edo period, situated at the border between Chichibu and Tama districts. It served as a key point along the Koshu Kaido and Chichibu Kaido. Established by the Edo shogunate, the checkpoint primarily monitored the movement of people and goods, checking passes, collecting taxes, and apprehending criminals. Tochimoto Sekisho, strategically located along the Chichibu Kaido, saw a constant flow of travelers. While the original checkpoint buildings no longer exist, the site preserves remnants such as gates, earthworks, and wells, allowing visitors to imagine life during that era. The surrounding area retains the atmosphere of the old highway, offering a historically rich walking experience. The remaining structures, including gates, earthworks, and wells, offer a glimpse into the past. The area surrounding the site still evokes the feeling of the old highway, making for a historically immersive stroll. Tochimoto Sekisho is a precious historical site that preserves Edo-era history and transports visitors back to the era of its bustling past.