This is the place where Takasugi Shinsaku (Sep. 27, 1839-May 17, 1867) passed away. He played a leading role on the eve of the Meiji Restoration,  devoting himself to defeating the Tokugawa Shogunate. Because his chronic disease, tuberculosis, worsened, Takasugi received medical treatment in the outbuilding of the residence of the bar manager Hayashi Sankuro, once located here. In spite of the serious efforts of His lawful wife, Masa, to look after him, he passed away in 1867 at age 27 years and eight months. After that, the Tokugawa Shogunate fell, and the Meiji administration was born. Japan took the first step toward a modern nation-state.