Location: Satsuma Barrier Station 薩摩藩関所, Kagoshima Size: 8 x 10 x 1.5cm
The historic Satsuma Barrier Station (薩摩藩関所), an Edo-period checkpoint associated with the powerful Shimazu clan of Kagoshima (formerly Satsuma Province). The bold inscription for "通行手形" (travel pass) with the Shimazu family crest—a simple yet iconic circle-with-cross symbol (丸十字紋)—and the official markings of the Satsuma Barrier Office (薩摩藩関所). The vertical writing along the side references Shimamura 77 Kannon (島津七十七観音), a regional pilgrimage route.
Tsuko-Tegata is a kind of wooden passport that was used in the Edo Period as an identity card for travelers when passing from region to region. They had been sold a lot in Showa period as mingei type souvenirs all over Japan. It's also a protector for safety and peace for family.
