The Ishi no Hōden: A Floating Marvel
Nestled in the serene grounds of Ōshiko Jinja, the Ishi no Hōden is a captivating megalithic monument. This Shinto shrine, located in Takasago, Hyōgo Prefecture, houses this mysterious stone, also known as Ame no Ukiishi or “The Floating Stone.”
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Unveiling the Enigma
The Ishi no Hōden, carved from tuff, stands surrounded by unprocessed bedrock on three sides. This colossal structure, weighing about 500 tons, measures 6.4 meters wide, 5.7 meters high, and 7.2 meters thick. The stone’s unique shape features two flat rectangular parallelepipeds vertically aligned, sandwiching a smaller rectangular block. One side has a pyramid-shaped protrusion, adding to its mystique. Visitors can walk around the monolith, which sits in a large depression forming a pond at its base. A central pillar at its base, hidden at eye level, gives the illusion of the stone floating above the pond.
A Puzzle of Time and Purpose
Despite extensive research, the origins and purpose of the Ishi no Hōden remain shrouded in mystery. In 2005-2006, the Takasago City Board of Education, with Otemae University Research Institute, conducted laser three-dimensional measurements. However, the findings did not reveal who carved the monolith or why.
Legends and Historical Mentions
Legend attributes the Ishi no Hōden to the kami Ōkuninushi and Sukunabikona. According to the tale, they attempted to build a stone palace overnight but failed due to a rebellion by the kami of Harima. Despite the setback, they vowed to protect the land. The “Harima Kokudo Fudoki,” dated around 713 to 717, mentions the monolith. It attributes its creation to Mononobe no Moriya by the orders of Prince Shotoku. Interestingly, during the Edo Period, Philipp Franz von Siebold noted the monument and included detailed sketches in his 1832 work, “Nippon.”
Tatsuyama Stone Quarries: A Historical Treasure
The Ishi no Hōden shares its National Historic Site designation with the nearby Tatsuyama Stone Quarries. These quarries, dating back to the Kofun period, have supplied “Tatsuyama stone” for over 1700 years. This rhyolite welded tuff, found on the right bank of the Kakogawa River, boasts material strength ideal for construction.
A Legacy in Stone
Stone from Tatsuyama has been vital in many historic structures. Transported by boat along the Hokkesantani River, it was used for sarcophagi, the Heijo Palace foundation stones, and various temples in the Yamato region. In modern times, it contributed to the stone walls of Himeji Castle, the Tokyo Imperial Palace, and the National Diet Building.
A Journey Through History
Located just 1.5 kilometers from Hoden Station on the JR West San’yō Main Line, the Ishi no Hōden invites visitors to explore its enigmatic presence. This site, with its rich blend of legend and history, offers a fascinating glimpse into Japan’s megalithic heritage.
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