NHK's program "Heroes' Choices," which shines the spotlight on heroes who made decisions that dramatically changed history, will be rebroadcasting the "selection" episode, "Kumamoto Castle Did Not Fall! - The True Story of the 'Satsuma Rebellion' and the Battle with the Strongest Saigo Army," on NHK BS from 9 p.m. on June 2nd.
The Satsuma Rebellion broke out in 1877. Kumamoto Castle was the key to victory or defeat. If it had been taken, samurai from all over the country who were dissatisfied with the Meiji government would have risen up in revolt, and the government could have been overthrown. The castle's garrison numbered only 3,300 against Saigo's army of 13,000. However, under the command of Commander Tani Kanjo, they managed to withstand the fierce attacks of Saigo's army, which was said to be the strongest, and endured sieges and water sieges, and held out for 52 days until reinforcements arrived.
What on earth was that secret? We explore its meaning from the samurai era to a new era.
