A city unites around a common goal: Moving a castle by hand
The project has helped bring together the residents of Hirosaki and revived interest in the castle, which was first moved in 2015 after an earthquake damaged a wall beneath it.
HIROSAKI, Japan - In a remarkable display of community spirit, a 400-ton historic castle was successfully moved by hand by a group of 80 schoolchildren in Hirosaki, Aomori Prefecture. The children, equipped with ropes, yellow gloves, and an unwavering determination, tackled the daunting task of pulling the castle from its original location.
The castle, a symbol of the city's rich history, had weathered numerous challenges, including wars, fires, and earthquakes. Despite its age and weight, the Hirosaki Castle remained an iconic landmark that the people of Hirosaki held dear. On this particular day, the castle's weight - substantial though it was - was rendered inconsequential in the face of the children's resolve.
On Saturday, the children took to the task with grit and determination. Armed with ropes attached to the castle's foundation, they began to pull, chanting the familiar cry of "so-re," or "heave-ho." Each child, with their yellow gloves protecting their hands, demonstrated remarkable strength and teamwork as they worked together to move the castle.
The mission, while unconventional, was a testament to the power of community and the human spirit. The children's effort, fueled by a shared goal, not only moved the historic castle but also brought the entire city together in a shared endeavor. The experience served as a reminder of the importance of unity, resilience, and the extraordinary things that can be achieved when people come together for a common purpose.
Written by urgent.news from Japan Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
