Ichirizuka

An ichirizuka (一里塚) is a Japanese milestone marker, traditionally a pair of earthen mounds planted with trees, placed at intervals of one ri (approximately 3.93 kilometers or 2.44 miles) along major highways, particularly during the Edo period (1603-1868). These markers served multiple purposes, including indicating distance traveled, providing shade for travelers, and acting as landmarks.

Ichirizuka were often situated on both sides of the road, forming a recognizable and consistent feature of the kaido (highways) that connected important cities and regions. While the physical construction could vary slightly depending on local resources and customs, the typical ichirizuka consisted of two mounds, typically 3-6 meters in diameter and 1-2 meters high. Trees, often pine or榎 (enoki, Japanese hackberry), were planted atop the mounds to provide shade and reinforce the structure with their roots.

The system of ichirizuka was formally established by the Tokugawa shogunate in the early Edo period, particularly under the direction of Tokugawa Ieyasu. The standardization and maintenance of these markers were considered vital for efficient administration, trade, and military transportation. Official surveys and measurements were conducted to ensure accurate placement.

Over time, many ichirizuka have been lost due to road construction, urban development, and natural decay. However, some have been preserved or reconstructed, often designated as historical sites. These surviving ichirizuka offer valuable insight into the infrastructure and landscape of Edo-period Japan. They also serve as a tangible reminder of the distances people traveled and the importance of standardized measures in a pre-modern society.