What is the 1300th Anniversary Project?
Tagajo 1300th Anniversary Project The name of Tagajo City was established in the first year of the Jinki era,
in the year 724 AD,
and it served as the location where the provincial government of Mutsu Kokufu was established.
It derives its name from "Tagajo," which flourished as the political and cultural center of ancient Tohoku.
The name Tagajo can also be interpreted as "Joyful Castle".
Legend has it that this castle was constructed to foster peace in Tohoku and is believed to be one of the factors behind the naming of Miyagi Prefecture.
"The Beginning of Miyagi, the Beginning of Tohoku"
—Tagajo embodies both.
In 2024 (Reiwa 6), we will celebrate its 1300th anniversary.
Considering Tagajo's history since its establishment,
we recognize the dedication of our ancestors,
reflecting on the presence of today's Tohoku.
Together, we celebrate the 1300th anniversary of Tagajo's founding, sharing the joy and inspiration among us all.
By sharing that joy and excitement with everyone,
we nurture seeds to create a fulfilling life for the future,
as it is the only way to
experience the value that can only be felt in that moment.
Learn from the past,
gaze upon the present,
create the future.
"Tsunagu, Tsunageru. 1300 years."
Based on this philosophy, we have developed a wide array of cultural programs that will serve as the coverstone for the development of Tohoku.
Our aim is to further enhance
the unique value and regional
vitality of Miyagi and Tohoku.
Message from the Mayor
Chairman of Tagajo 1300th Anniversary Commemorative Project Executive Committee
Tagajo Mayor Kosuke Fukaya
The name Tagajo City is derived from "Taga Castle," which was founded in the first year of the Jinki era (724 AD) and flourished as the political and cultural center of the ancient Tohoku region, including being the location of the Mutsu Kokufu (provincial government office). The name can be read as "Joyful castle," and it is said to have been built in hopes of bringing peace to the Tohoku region. It is also said to be one of the origins of the name of Miyagi Prefecture,
which celebrated its 150th anniversary this year.
The Taga Castle ruins, which can be said to be the identity of our city, is one of the three major historic sites in Japan along with the Heijo Palace ruins and the Dazaifu ruins. They are also designated as a "special historic site," which can be said to be a national treasure of ruins, and are an important historical site in telling the history of Japan.
The Taga Castle Monument (an important cultural property) which inscribes the founding of Tagajo is the oldest document to bear the name Tagajo, and is becoming increasingly important not only for its historical and academic value, but also as a mirror that reflects the situation in ancient Japan and even ancient East Asia.
Tagajo, which can be said to be the beginning of Tohoku and Miyagi, will celebrate its 1300th anniversary of its founding in 2024, a memorable year. The eternal history and culture that have been cultivated over the long period of 1300 years, as well as the diverse activities of the people, are extremely valuable assets in telling the history of not only Tohoku but also Japan.
Taking advantage of the unique characteristics of Tagajo, we will hold a wide variety of events to commemorate the 1300th anniversary of the founding of Tagajo, aiming not only for economic prosperity but also for spiritual prosperity. The 1300th anniversary of the founding of Tagajo is not a goal but a springboard for stepping into the future of Tagajo and Tohoku, so why not experience new discoveries and encounters in this land of Tagajo celebrating its 1300th anniversary?
We look forward to your visit.