14 Hadasu-no-Michi・Obuki-toge Pass

Kamakura Period Stone Path

This is a stone path dating from the Kamakura period, making it the oldest stone path on the Iseji Route. The stones used to pave paths in those days were much larger than those used in later periods, making it easy to distinguish from roads paved in the Edo period (1603‒1868).

Jofuku Shrine

Emperor Qin's doctor, Jofuku, came seeking the elixir of life and imparted knowledge of the advanced civilization of China to the locals. Even when Japan went to war with China 100 years ago, the locals' reverence for Jofuku never wavered.

The Footprint Spring

The famous Buddhist monk, Kobodaishi (founder of Koya-san), is said to have left a footprint in the stone here where this hole is. The holy water here never dries up and is said to cure anything that ails you.

The Inscribed Stone

There is a big rock in front of the house of a lord that ruled here long ago. A couple, whom the lord had wronged before settling here, had sought him out to seek revenge, but the lord retaliated when they attacked. He reflected on this tragedy and had these characters carved on this rock: Kin - diligence, Shin - prudence/moderation and Nin – endurance through humiliation.

Shishigaki

Just before you get to the pass, you will see a stone fence erected in the Edo period to protect crops from wild boars and deer.

Obuki-toge Pass

The Obuki Teahouse operated here until about 1950. They would wrap rice balls and sushi in the leaves of plants - called "baran" and "hanamyoga" - which they planted here. The teahouse is long gone, but the plants remain.

Bamboo Grove

From Obuki Pass, a gentle slope descends through a peaceful and scenic bamboo grove. During the season of the bamboo shoots (typically in the months of February and March), try and spot the holes where wild boars have dug up these shoots.

Odomari Beach

The beautiful sand beach, the Mamirugashima and Hakoshima islands off the coast, and the rocky point called Onigajo (Demon's Castle) make for a breathtaking view.