Hello! I’m SacChi, a blogger based in Kochi.
In Part 1, I shared an overview of Kochi Castle’s must-see highlights.
This time, I’ll dive into a lesser-known and surprising story:
“The connection between Kochi Castle and the Mitsubishi logo.”
👉 Missed Part 1?
🏯 Kochi Castle Travel Guide | Complete Overview of Its History, Highlights & Access [Part 1] | SacChi’s Love Affair with Kochi
🟠 Did the Mitsubishi Logo Originate in Kochi?
The iconic Three-Diamond Mitsubishi logo—known worldwide—actually has deep historical ties to Kochi (formerly the Tosa Domain).
🔶 The Iwasaki Family Crest: Mikai-Bishi
The founder of the Mitsubishi conglomerate, Yataro Iwasaki, was born in Kochi and served the Tosa Domain as a low-ranking samurai.
His family crest, called Mikai-Bishi (Three-Tiered Rhombus), features three stacked diamonds and was a major influence on the Mitsubishi emblem.
🌿 The Yamauchi Family Crest: Mitsu-Gashiwa
Meanwhile, the feudal lord who built Kochi Castle, Kazutoyo Yamauchi, used a different crest: Mitsu-Gashiwa (Triple Oak Leaves).
Out of respect and loyalty, Yataro Iwasaki combined his own family crest with that of the Yamauchi clan—creating a symbol of unity between the two.
That emblem would go on to become the Mitsubishi logo we know today.
🏯 Historical Connection with Kochi Castle
- Kochi Castle was the stronghold of the Yamauchi family (Mitsu-Gashiwa crest).
- The Iwasaki family, including young Yataro, supported the Tosa Domain as lower-ranked samurai (Mikai-Bishi crest).
- The Mitsubishi logo represents the fusion of both lineages.
This means the Mitsubishi brand, now globally recognized, can trace its symbolic roots back to Kochi Castle and its surrounding history.
💬 Final Thoughts: Discovering the Roots of a Global Brand
When you visit Kochi Castle, take a moment to look beyond the stone walls and scenic views.
Imagine this: a humble samurai from Kochi created one of the world’s most recognizable logos, inspired by the very castle you’re standing in front of.
📍 Even for those of us living in Kochi, this is a story to be proud of.
Look out for the Mikai-Bishi and Mitsu-Gashiwa crests when you visit—you’ll be surprised how often you spot them!
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