Some
existing records suggest that the highway dates back to the time of the
battle of Ishiyama, long ago in the feudal days of old Japan. It was an
important road, leading from Osaka to the feudal domains of Izumi and
Kishu; Hideyoshi Toyotomi traveled this highway to Sumiyoshi Shrine and
the seat of government in Sakai. It was known as having splendid views
for travelers to enjoy on their journeys. Leading from Ebisu-cho through
Tengachaya, Sumiyoshi, and Anryu to Sakai and Wakayama, the highway remains
an important route even in its current form, being designated as National
Route 29 in the Meiji era. |