Yamazaki Susumu (山崎 烝, 1833 – February 6, 1868) was a Shinsengumi officer and spy, otherwise known as a kansatsu (監察, inspector).
As shown in the Hakuōki franchise, Yamazaki was an excellent medic and had full trust from Kondō Isami and Hijikata Toshizō.
Background
Yamazaki Susumu was a rōnin (masterless samurai) from Osaka and an expert in Katori Ryu. He possessed exceptional skills in both literary and military arts, which he acquired under the tutelage of his uncle. His profound knowledge and expertise in these areas proved invaluable when engaging in political discussions with court nobles, highlighting his scholastic prowess. Yamazaki pursued the study of medicine under the guidance of Matsumoto Ryōjun. As described by Matsumoto, Yamazaki exhibited qualities of gentleness and reticence, reflecting his calm and quiet demeanor.
Shinsengumi
In 1863, Yamazaki officially joined the ranks of the Shinsengumi. In 1864, he was assigned, alongside Shimada Kai, by Kondō Isami to investigate the circumstances leading up to the Ikedaya Incident on July 8. However, there exists a theory that Yamazaki's involvement in the Ikedaya Incident may be a fabrication introduced by Shimozawa Kan and Shiba Ryōtarō.
While in Kyoto, Yamazaki worked as a doctor, and initially, the Shinsengumi utilized his pharmacy as their base before later relocating to their headquarters at Nishihonganji.
In 1865, Yamazaki accompanied Kondō to Hiroshima. It is believed that he did not return to Kyoto with Kondō until the following year to conduct further investigations regarding Chōshū's status.
In 1867, Yamazaki, like the rest of the Shinsengumi, attained the rank of hatamoto (a high ranking samurai in the direct service of the Tokugawa Bakufu).
During the Battle of Toba–Fushimi in 1868, Yamazaki sustained severe injuries and tragically passed away on February 6. The precise location of his death remains a subject of debate, though it is commonly believed that he drowned while attempting to escape. Yamazaki enjoyed the complete trust of Kondō and Hijikata Toshizō and remained one of the most loyal members of the Shinsengumi until his untimely demise.
References
- Rekishi Dokuhon, December 1997 issue "The Ten Captains of The Late Tokugawa Period's Strongest Shinsengumi"
- Shinsengumi Chronicle. Tokyo: Shin Jinbutsu Oraisha, 2003. ISBN 4-404-03065-7
- Shinsengumi Encyclopedia. Tokyo: Shin Jinbutsu Oraisha, 1978.