Historical research from a socio-cultural perspective on the establishment and management of Hakusan Park

This study delves into the historical significance of Hakusan shrine and its transformation into Hakusan Park during the early and late modern period. From a socio-cultural perspective, by examining historical administrative material and documents, it also explores the relationship between residents and governing bodies (Niigata prefecture, Niigata city, Niigata ward, etc.) in the establishment and management of Hakusan Park within the precincts of Hakusan shrine. The case studies focus on the shrine and park from the Edo era to the Meiji era. The findings indicate that Hakusan shrine played a vital role in shaping the socio-cultural aspects of Niigata town during the early modern period. The transition from a shrine precinct to a modern park brought about a loss of its economic function and impacted its religious significance. While the townspeople continued to view the park as a space for pilgrimage inherited from the early modern period, the emergence of new functions and meanings during the Meiji era coexisted alongside its sacred nature. However, changes in the course of the Shinano River due to the appearance of sandbars led to deterioration of the park’s embankment function, resulting in the loss of its once scenic landscape.