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Japan
Hikeshi (Firemen) Preserving Foundation
Japan
Hikeshi Preserving Foundation is the leader responsible for the
preservation and guidance of future Hikeshi.
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The history behind Hikeshi is dated as far back as the Edo Tokugawa
Shogunate era. In 1650, the Japanese government appointed two Direct
Retainer of the Shogun as the first "Hikeshis", they are
the founders of "Jyobikeshi" Association.
Furthermore, in 1717 the rein of Shogun Yoshimune, there were two
new associations formed. Eleven hereditary feudal lords were appointed
the task of organizing the "Daimyobikeshi (Hikeshi for the
castles)" and the other one which had a slower start was called
"Machibikeshi (Hikeshi for the town)." Till then, the
"Jyobikeshi" and "Daimyobikeshi" were responsible
for the Edo Castle and Old Samurai residences. The daily fire needs
were accommodated by the ordinary construction workers turned Hikeshis,
this was supported by the local residents' association.
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Most of the houses built in this era were built of two stories
high, therefore, anything taller than that could over look the city.
When heading towards a fire if one got lost, he would prop up his
ladder and climb to the top and find his way there.
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| (1) |
Even though each association
has their own Matoi, when a fire occurs they all rampage with
their flags and race to be the first to be at the scene of
the fire. They then climb to the roof of the burning house
and wave their Matoi notifying the fire fighters the location.
Every available hand will gather and help. |
| (2) |
The Matoi was also
used as a point of reference to clear a path stopping the
fire from spreading. |
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Order -Miniature of "Matoi"
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| Tobiguchi (Fire Hook): |
A long stick with a big steel hook on the end used for hooking
and pulling on things. |
| Ryudosui (Pump): |
A hand pump designed to shoot water from a wooden container
when a lever is pushed. |
| Kiyariuta (Kiyari Song): |
This is a customary song that everybody sings while carrying
large heavy logs, large stones, shrine bells, decorated floats
and even while splitting rocks. This song is quite distinctive
because it has no set beat. This song has progressed and is
even sung at festivals and happy occasions. The construction
workers in the Kanto area sing the Kiyari during events. |
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| Nihonhikeshihozonkai
Outline |
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Non-profit organization
Establishment date: 1935
Main Office: 9-6-30 Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-0052 Japan
Telephone: 03-3402-0351 Fax: 03-3403-1370
e-mail:hikeshi@nihonhikeshihozonkai.org
http://www.nihonhikeshihozonkai.org
Chairman: Tenreiin, Shoken
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