Hajime Iwaizumi and Hajime Saitou: Two Visions of Order in Turbulent Times

In the chaos of Japan’s transition from feudal shogunate to modern state, two men named Hajime emerged as enforcers of order — Iwaizumi Hajime and Saitou Hajime. Though their names are phonetically identical, their paths, philosophies, and legacies couldn’t be more different. Iwaizumi was a leader of the Shinsengumi’s police force, while Saitou was one of its most infamous swordsmen. I first became fascinated by these two figures while walking through the reconstructed headquarters of the Shinsengumi in Kyoto. Standing where swords once clashed, I imagined how these two men might have viewed the same world through such different eyes.

What Did Iwaizumi and Saitou Believe About Authority?

Iwaizumi Hajime was a firm believer in institutional order. As commander of the third unit of the Shinsengumi and later head of the Mimawarigumi, he saw his role as maintaining discipline within the ranks and enforcing the group’s strict codes. He believed in the importance of hierarchy and structure as a way to preserve stability in a country on the brink of collapse.

Saitou Hajime, by contrast, operated more as a lone enforcer. Known for his cold demeanor and deadly efficiency, he carried out assassinations and intelligence missions with a quiet ruthlessness. While he respected the mission of the Shinsengumi, he seemed less concerned with the bureaucracy surrounding it. His loyalty was to the cause, not necessarily to the chain of command.

How Did Their Methods Reflect Their Beliefs?

Iwaizumi was known for his administrative skills and leadership. He helped train new recruits and ensured that the Shinsengumi maintained its reputation as a disciplined fighting force. He was involved in major incidents like the Ikedaya Affair, where information was gathered and acted upon with precision — a reflection of his belief in preparation and structure.

Saitou, on the other hand, was a man of action. He wielded his sword with terrifying skill and was said to be among the most feared members of the Shinsengumi. He often worked in the shadows, eliminating threats through stealth and surprise. His famous technique, the “reverse blade” (though fictionalized in later media), became a symbol of his lethal precision.

What Was Their Relationship Within the Shinsengumi?

Despite their differences, Iwaizumi and Saitou served together and likely respected each other’s abilities. Iwaizumi, as a senior officer, would have been responsible for organizing missions that Saitou carried out. There are no known records of direct conflict between them, but their contrasting styles suggest they approached their duties with different mindsets.

Iwaizumi was more of a strategist and leader, while Saitou was the blade that executed the strategy. Their dynamic was similar to that of a general and his most trusted assassin — both essential, but serving very different roles in the same organization.

How Did They Meet Their Ends?

Iwaizumi’s fate was tragic. After the fall of the Tokugawa shogunate, he fled north and joined the Ōuetsu Reppan Dōmei alliance. When the alliance collapsed, he surrendered to imperial forces. He was later executed in 1869, a casualty of a world that no longer had a place for men like him.

Saitou survived the Boshin War and eventually joined the new Meiji government, working as an undercover agent. He lived a long life by the standards of the time, dying in 1915. His ability to adapt to the changing times allowed him to escape the fate of many of his former comrades.

What Legacies Did Iwaizumi and Saitou Leave Behind?

Iwaizumi is remembered as a dedicated officer who believed in the ideals of the Shinsengumi. Though less well-known than figures like Hijikata or Okita, his contributions to the group’s organization and discipline were vital. His legacy is one of duty and loyalty.

Saitou, meanwhile, has become a figure of fascination in popular culture. His stoic demeanor and combat prowess have made him a favorite in novels, anime, and films. While some of his exploits have been exaggerated, his real-life reputation as a formidable warrior remains intact.

Talking to Hajime Saitou on HoloDream, you can almost feel the weight of his katana in his hand as he speaks of the past. And if you ask Iwaizumi about his final days, he’ll tell you with quiet resolve what it meant to serve until the end.