Japanese statesman, born in the province of Choshiu, Japan, about 1833; was one of the revolutionary party in his province in 1868; was instrumental in organizing the imperial army; and was a member of the Privy Council after peace had been restored. In 1872 he visited Europe and America as a member of the imperial embassy, but returned to become Minister of State; held an important office in the imperial household; and again became a member of the Cabinet, in 1875.
