Known simply as shakaku 社 格 it's a state system that divides and classifies Shinto shrines ( Shinto is the state religion) as national and other and based on this classification they are treated differently.This classification system is recent, it began to be used after the Meiji Restoration (officially 23 October 1868 even if further studies postpone the beginning of a few years) using as a starting point an important text in Shintoism: the Engishiki 延 喜 式.
This work dates back to the Engi era and was composed between 907 AD. and 927 A.D. It is made up of 50 volumes, of which the first 10 volumes are imperial Shinto regulations (jingi) and the last 40 are criminal and administrative codifications.

A few years ago I saw a particular documentary on television, there were banners, honor pickets, bands etc. I asked my Japanese friend what it was and he explained that they were part of the Imperial Guard.
The Imperial Guard refers to two distinct organizations which, are guided by the same primary purpose, the protection of the emperor, the imperial family and the places and properties linked to them.

 Before going into the historical path of Japanese,  we will illustrate its most important phases, it is useful to take a look at the periods that characterized its birth, development and its affirmation in a country that initially had a spoken language but lack of the written part.

  One of the most important chapters in the history of Japan. A key moment in the Meiji period and the Boshin War. A growing dissatisfaction with the direction the country was taking led to revolt. 

 Second part of the story of one of Japan's most important battles in the Meiji era, Satsuma's rebellion.