Momotaro, Find the truth behind the legend.

Chisuigawa River is a river that flows from Mt. Kinojo. Legend has it that the river turned bright red from the blood of Ura, who was injured by an arrow shot by Kibitsuhiko-no-Mikoto. The river is said to have gotten its name because of its red color that resulted from a high iron content. (“Chi” in Japanese means “blood”.) （Contact：Soja City Tourism Project Section）

Yata-otsuka Burial Mound

This round burial mound is one of Kibi’s three large stone burial mounds. It is thought to be the family tomb of Shimotsumichi, one of the descendants of Kibitsuhiko-no-Mikoto’s brother.

Kibidango (millet dumpling)

This is one of Okayama’s most famous confections. It is a millet dumpling designed to resemble dumplings that Momotaro gave to the dog, monkey, and pheasant when he vanquished the ogres, and during the Edo period, they would be sold by the gate to Kibitsu-jinja Shrine. There is a theory that the name "Kibi" is said to originate from the millet ("kibi") plant.

Okayama peaches

Since ancient times, it has been said that ogres were afraid of peaches. It has also been imagined that this belief is related to Momotaro, who vanquished the ogres. (“Momo” means “peach” in Japanese.) the legend of Momotaro developed in Okayama, which is famous as a peach-producing region thanks to its beneficial climate and soil. Peaches are synonymous with Okayama, and not only are they delicious but they…

Yata-otsuka Burial Mound

This round burial mound is one of Kibi’s three large stone burial mounds. It is thought to be the family tomb of Shimotsumichi, one of the descendants of Kibitsuhiko-no-Mikoto’s brother.

Kibidango (millet dumpling)

This is one of Okayama’s most famous confections. It is a millet dumpling designed to resemble dumplings that Momotaro gave to the dog, monkey, and pheasant when he vanquished the ogres, and during the Edo period, they would be sold by the gate to Kibitsu-jinja Shrine. There is a theory that the name "Kibi" is said to originate from the millet ("kibi") plant.

Okayama peaches

Since ancient times, it has been said that ogres were afraid of peaches. It has also been imagined that this belief is related to Momotaro, who vanquished the ogres. (“Momo” means “peach” in Japanese.) the legend of Momotaro developed in Okayama, which is famous as a peach-producing region thanks to its beneficial climate and soil. Peaches are synonymous with Okayama, and not only are they delicious but they…

Peach seeds unearthed from the Joto Ruins

The Joto Ruins are ruins from the Yayoi period. 9,606 peach seeds have been unearthed here. This is an unusually large amount for Japan, suggesting that Okayama and peaches have had a close relationship since ancient times. The peach has had a role as a talisman since ancient times, so you are reminded of its connection with the legend of defeating demons.

Kibidango (millet dumpling)

This is one of Okayama’s most famous confections. It is a millet dumpling designed to resemble dumplings that Momotaro gave to the dog, monkey, and pheasant when he vanquished the ogres, and during the Edo period, they would be sold by the gate to Kibitsu-jinja Shrine. There is a theory that the name "Kibi" is said to originate from the millet ("kibi") plant.

Okayama peaches

Since ancient times, it has been said that ogres were afraid of peaches. It has also been imagined that this belief is related to Momotaro, who vanquished the ogres. (“Momo” means “peach” in Japanese.) the legend of Momotaro developed in Okayama, which is famous as a peach-producing region thanks to its beneficial climate and soil. Peaches are synonymous with Okayama, and not only are they delicious but they…

Peach seeds unearthed from the Joto Ruins

The Joto Ruins are ruins from the Yayoi period. 9,606 peach seeds have been unearthed here. This is an unusually large amount for Japan, suggesting that Okayama and peaches have had a close relationship since ancient times. The peach has had a role as a talisman since ancient times, so you are reminded of its connection with the legend of defeating demons.

Musa-otsuka Burial Mound

This round burial mound is one of Kibi’s three large stone burial mounds. It is thought to be the family tomb of Kamitsumichi, one of Kibitsuhiko-no-Mikoto’s descendants.

Okayama peaches

Since ancient times, it has been said that ogres were afraid of peaches. It has also been imagined that this belief is related to Momotaro, who vanquished the ogres. (“Momo” means “peach” in Japanese.) the legend of Momotaro developed in Okayama, which is famous as a peach-producing region thanks to its beneficial climate and soil. Peaches are synonymous with Okayama, and not only are they delicious but they…

Peach seeds unearthed from the Joto Ruins

The Joto Ruins are ruins from the Yayoi period. 9,606 peach seeds have been unearthed here. This is an unusually large amount for Japan, suggesting that Okayama and peaches have had a close relationship since ancient times. The peach has had a role as a talisman since ancient times, so you are reminded of its connection with the legend of defeating demons.

Musa-otsuka Burial Mound

This round burial mound is one of Kibi’s three large stone burial mounds. It is thought to be the family tomb of Kamitsumichi, one of Kibitsuhiko-no-Mikoto’s descendants.

Komori-zuka Burial Mound

This keyhole-shaped burial mound is one of Kibi’s three large stone burial mounds. The horizontal stone chamber is about 19.4 m in overall length, making it the largest stone chamber in Kibi.

Peach seeds unearthed from the Joto Ruins

The Joto Ruins are ruins from the Yayoi period. 9,606 peach seeds have been unearthed here. This is an unusually large amount for Japan, suggesting that Okayama and peaches have had a close relationship since ancient times. The peach has had a role as a talisman since ancient times, so you are reminded of its connection with the legend of defeating demons.

Musa-otsuka Burial Mound

This round burial mound is one of Kibi’s three large stone burial mounds. It is thought to be the family tomb of Kamitsumichi, one of Kibitsuhiko-no-Mikoto’s descendants.

Komori-zuka Burial Mound

This keyhole-shaped burial mound is one of Kibi’s three large stone burial mounds. The horizontal stone chamber is about 19.4 m in overall length, making it the largest stone chamber in Kibi.

Ryogusan Burial Mound

The Ryogusan Burial Mound is the third biggest burial mound in Okayama. At 206m in length, it is estimated to have been constructed in the latter half of the fifth century. It is characteristic for being surrounded by a double moat, like that of the Kinki Region's imperial burial site; only four similar sites in Okayama have been found. It contains many mysteries, with neither stone roofing (fukiishi) or clay fi…

Musa-otsuka Burial Mound

This round burial mound is one of Kibi’s three large stone burial mounds. It is thought to be the family tomb of Kamitsumichi, one of Kibitsuhiko-no-Mikoto’s descendants.

Komori-zuka Burial Mound

This keyhole-shaped burial mound is one of Kibi’s three large stone burial mounds. The horizontal stone chamber is about 19.4 m in overall length, making it the largest stone chamber in Kibi.

Ryogusan Burial Mound

The Ryogusan Burial Mound is the third biggest burial mound in Okayama. At 206m in length, it is estimated to have been constructed in the latter half of the fifth century. It is characteristic for being surrounded by a double moat, like that of the Kinki Region's imperial burial site; only four similar sites in Okayama have been found. It contains many mysteries, with neither stone roofing (fukiishi) or clay fi…

Tsukuriyama（作山） Burial Mound （No.1 Burial Mound）

This keyhole-shaped burial mound, built in the mid-fifth century, is the tenth-largest in the country. 282 m in overall length, it is large enough to be seen from Kinojo Castle.

Komori-zuka Burial Mound

This keyhole-shaped burial mound is one of Kibi’s three large stone burial mounds. The horizontal stone chamber is about 19.4 m in overall length, making it the largest stone chamber in Kibi.

Ryogusan Burial Mound

The Ryogusan Burial Mound is the third biggest burial mound in Okayama. At 206m in length, it is estimated to have been constructed in the latter half of the fifth century. It is characteristic for being surrounded by a double moat, like that of the Kinki Region's imperial burial site; only four similar sites in Okayama have been found. It contains many mysteries, with neither stone roofing (fukiishi) or clay fi…

Tsukuriyama（作山） Burial Mound （No.1 Burial Mound）

This keyhole-shaped burial mound, built in the mid-fifth century, is the tenth-largest in the country. 282 m in overall length, it is large enough to be seen from Kinojo Castle.

Tsukuriyama（造山） Burial Mound （No.1,2,3,4,5,6)

The burial mound is about 350m long. This is the fourth-largest keyhole-shaped burial mound in the country. It attests to the existence of a major power that was capable of building such enormous burial mounds in Kibi. Artifacts related to the Korean peninsula have been unearthed in the vicinity.It is the largest burial mound in Japan that you can enter.

Ryogusan Burial Mound

The Ryogusan Burial Mound is the third biggest burial mound in Okayama. At 206m in length, it is estimated to have been constructed in the latter half of the fifth century. It is characteristic for being surrounded by a double moat, like that of the Kinki Region's imperial burial site; only four similar sites in Okayama have been found. It contains many mysteries, with neither stone roofing (fukiishi) or clay fi…

Tsukuriyama（作山） Burial Mound （No.1 Burial Mound）

This keyhole-shaped burial mound, built in the mid-fifth century, is the tenth-largest in the country. 282 m in overall length, it is large enough to be seen from Kinojo Castle.

Tsukuriyama（造山） Burial Mound （No.1,2,3,4,5,6)

The burial mound is about 350m long. This is the fourth-largest keyhole-shaped burial mound in the country. It attests to the existence of a major power that was capable of building such enormous burial mounds in Kibi. Artifacts related to the Korean peninsula have been unearthed in the vicinity.It is the largest burial mound in Japan that you can enter.

Special Utensil Stand

These earthenware vessels were used for funerary festivals in the Kibi region during the Yayoi period. They have special patterns that tell us about the distinctive culture of Kibi during that era. They have been unearthed at the Tatetsuki Ruins and Koikui-jinja Shrine, and they are believed to be the forerunners of the cylindrical haniwa figurines. （Contact：Okayama Prefectural Museum）

Tsukuriyama（作山） Burial Mound （No.1 Burial Mound）

This keyhole-shaped burial mound, built in the mid-fifth century, is the tenth-largest in the country. 282 m in overall length, it is large enough to be seen from Kinojo Castle.

Tsukuriyama（造山） Burial Mound （No.1,2,3,4,5,6)

The burial mound is about 350m long. This is the fourth-largest keyhole-shaped burial mound in the country. It attests to the existence of a major power that was capable of building such enormous burial mounds in Kibi. Artifacts related to the Korean peninsula have been unearthed in the vicinity.It is the largest burial mound in Japan that you can enter.

Special Utensil Stand

These earthenware vessels were used for funerary festivals in the Kibi region during the Yayoi period. They have special patterns that tell us about the distinctive culture of Kibi during that era. They have been unearthed at the Tatetsuki Ruins and Koikui-jinja Shrine, and they are believed to be the forerunners of the cylindrical haniwa figurines. （Contact：Okayama Prefectural Museum）

Kibitsuhiko-jinja Shrine

This shrine venerates Kibitsuhiko-no-Mikoto. It was built as the Ichinomiya (first-ranked shrine) of Bizen Province and was the object of intense devotion. Ura-jinja Shrine, which venerates Ura, is also located within its precincts. You should also see the peach-shaped fortune slips and offering boards!!

Tsukuriyama（造山） Burial Mound （No.1,2,3,4,5,6)

The burial mound is about 350m long. This is the fourth-largest keyhole-shaped burial mound in the country. It attests to the existence of a major power that was capable of building such enormous burial mounds in Kibi. Artifacts related to the Korean peninsula have been unearthed in the vicinity.It is the largest burial mound in Japan that you can enter.

Special Utensil Stand

These earthenware vessels were used for funerary festivals in the Kibi region during the Yayoi period. They have special patterns that tell us about the distinctive culture of Kibi during that era. They have been unearthed at the Tatetsuki Ruins and Koikui-jinja Shrine, and they are believed to be the forerunners of the cylindrical haniwa figurines. （Contact：Okayama Prefectural Museum）

Kibitsuhiko-jinja Shrine

This shrine venerates Kibitsuhiko-no-Mikoto. It was built as the Ichinomiya (first-ranked shrine) of Bizen Province and was the object of intense devotion. Ura-jinja Shrine, which venerates Ura, is also located within its precincts. You should also see the peach-shaped fortune slips and offering boards!!

Kibitsu-jinja Shrine Ogre Mask

This is an ogre mask preserved by Kibitsu-jinja Shrine. It is said to have been made in the 16th century. It has lost the forehead horns, but it lets us imagine what the ogre in the legend looked like.

Special Utensil Stand

These earthenware vessels were used for funerary festivals in the Kibi region during the Yayoi period. They have special patterns that tell us about the distinctive culture of Kibi during that era. They have been unearthed at the Tatetsuki Ruins and Koikui-jinja Shrine, and they are believed to be the forerunners of the cylindrical haniwa figurines. （Contact：Okayama Prefectural Museum）

Kibitsuhiko-jinja Shrine

This shrine venerates Kibitsuhiko-no-Mikoto. It was built as the Ichinomiya (first-ranked shrine) of Bizen Province and was the object of intense devotion. Ura-jinja Shrine, which venerates Ura, is also located within its precincts. You should also see the peach-shaped fortune slips and offering boards!!

Kibitsu-jinja Shrine Ogre Mask

This is an ogre mask preserved by Kibitsu-jinja Shrine. It is said to have been made in the 16th century. It has lost the forehead horns, but it lets us imagine what the ogre in the legend looked like.

Old Kibitsu-jinja Shrine Precinct Map

The Old Kibitsu-jinja Shrine Precinct Map depicts locations associated with the legend, including Mt. Kinojo, Mt. Tatetsuki, Koikui Shrine, Chisuigawa River, and Yaguinomiya Shrine. It tells us that Kibitsu-jinja Shrine has attached great importance to the legend since ancient times. （Contact：Kibitsu-jinja Shrine）

Kibitsuhiko-jinja Shrine

This shrine venerates Kibitsuhiko-no-Mikoto. It was built as the Ichinomiya (first-ranked shrine) of Bizen Province and was the object of intense devotion. Ura-jinja Shrine, which venerates Ura, is also located within its precincts. You should also see the peach-shaped fortune slips and offering boards!!

Kibitsu-jinja Shrine Ogre Mask

This is an ogre mask preserved by Kibitsu-jinja Shrine. It is said to have been made in the 16th century. It has lost the forehead horns, but it lets us imagine what the ogre in the legend looked like.

Old Kibitsu-jinja Shrine Precinct Map

The Old Kibitsu-jinja Shrine Precinct Map depicts locations associated with the legend, including Mt. Kinojo, Mt. Tatetsuki, Koikui Shrine, Chisuigawa River, and Yaguinomiya Shrine. It tells us that Kibitsu-jinja Shrine has attached great importance to the legend since ancient times. （Contact：Kibitsu-jinja Shrine）

Narukama Shinji ritual

This ritual takes place in the Okamaden at Kibitsu-jinja Shrine. When Ura's wife Azohime cooked rice, Ura made the cauldron sing, and that sound foretold good fortune. The head of Ura is said to be buried beneath the kettle.

Kibitsu-jinja Shrine Ogre Mask

This is an ogre mask preserved by Kibitsu-jinja Shrine. It is said to have been made in the 16th century. It has lost the forehead horns, but it lets us imagine what the ogre in the legend looked like.

Old Kibitsu-jinja Shrine Precinct Map

The Old Kibitsu-jinja Shrine Precinct Map depicts locations associated with the legend, including Mt. Kinojo, Mt. Tatetsuki, Koikui Shrine, Chisuigawa River, and Yaguinomiya Shrine. It tells us that Kibitsu-jinja Shrine has attached great importance to the legend since ancient times. （Contact：Kibitsu-jinja Shrine）

Narukama Shinji ritual

This ritual takes place in the Okamaden at Kibitsu-jinja Shrine. When Ura's wife Azohime cooked rice, Ura made the cauldron sing, and that sound foretold good fortune. The head of Ura is said to be buried beneath the kettle.

Kibitsu-jinja Shrine Okamaden

The severed head of Ura, vanquished by Kibitsuhiko-no-Mikoto, is said to be buried beneath a kettle. After his death, Ura was able to tell people’s fortunes by making the kettle ring. Even today, a kettle-ringing ritual takes place in the Okamaden.

Old Kibitsu-jinja Shrine Precinct Map

The Old Kibitsu-jinja Shrine Precinct Map depicts locations associated with the legend, including Mt. Kinojo, Mt. Tatetsuki, Koikui Shrine, Chisuigawa River, and Yaguinomiya Shrine. It tells us that Kibitsu-jinja Shrine has attached great importance to the legend since ancient times. （Contact：Kibitsu-jinja Shrine）

Narukama Shinji ritual

This ritual takes place in the Okamaden at Kibitsu-jinja Shrine. When Ura's wife Azohime cooked rice, Ura made the cauldron sing, and that sound foretold good fortune. The head of Ura is said to be buried beneath the kettle.

Kibitsu-jinja Shrine Okamaden

The severed head of Ura, vanquished by Kibitsuhiko-no-Mikoto, is said to be buried beneath a kettle. After his death, Ura was able to tell people’s fortunes by making the kettle ring. Even today, a kettle-ringing ritual takes place in the Okamaden.

Kibitsu-jinja Shrine

This shrine venerates Kibitsuhiko-no-Mikoto, the vanquisher of the ogre. The honden, built in the Hiyokuirimoya-zukuri architecutral style, and haiden buildings are designated as a national treasure.Cultural assets related to the legend of Momotaro, such as the Yaokiiwa and the Okamaden (kettle hall), can be found within the precincts.

Narukama Shinji ritual

This ritual takes place in the Okamaden at Kibitsu-jinja Shrine. When Ura's wife Azohime cooked rice, Ura made the cauldron sing, and that sound foretold good fortune. The head of Ura is said to be buried beneath the kettle.

Kibitsu-jinja Shrine Okamaden

The severed head of Ura, vanquished by Kibitsuhiko-no-Mikoto, is said to be buried beneath a kettle. After his death, Ura was able to tell people’s fortunes by making the kettle ring. Even today, a kettle-ringing ritual takes place in the Okamaden.

Kibitsu-jinja Shrine

This shrine venerates Kibitsuhiko-no-Mikoto, the vanquisher of the ogre. The honden, built in the Hiyokuirimoya-zukuri architecutral style, and haiden buildings are designated as a national treasure.Cultural assets related to the legend of Momotaro, such as the Yaokiiwa and the Okamaden (kettle hall), can be found within the precincts.

Kibi no Nakayama

Kibi no Nakayama is a famous mountain that appears in the Kokin Wakashu poetry anthology and in the Pillow Book. According to legend, Kibitsuhiko-no-Mikoto built his camp here. This famous mountain has been the subject of poetry and a conveyor of stories down through the ages.

Kibitsu-jinja Shrine Okamaden

The severed head of Ura, vanquished by Kibitsuhiko-no-Mikoto, is said to be buried beneath a kettle. After his death, Ura was able to tell people’s fortunes by making the kettle ring. Even today, a kettle-ringing ritual takes place in the Okamaden.

Kibitsu-jinja Shrine

This shrine venerates Kibitsuhiko-no-Mikoto, the vanquisher of the ogre. The honden, built in the Hiyokuirimoya-zukuri architecutral style, and haiden buildings are designated as a national treasure.Cultural assets related to the legend of Momotaro, such as the Yaokiiwa and the Okamaden (kettle hall), can be found within the precincts.

Kibi no Nakayama

Kibi no Nakayama is a famous mountain that appears in the Kokin Wakashu poetry anthology and in the Pillow Book. According to legend, Kibitsuhiko-no-Mikoto built his camp here. This famous mountain has been the subject of poetry and a conveyor of stories down through the ages.

Bitchu Province Okibitsu-jinja Brief Histor

This is a document, created in the late Edo period, that records the origins of Kibitsu-jinja Shrine. It mentions the legend of Momotaro, and the name “Ura” also appears. It is recorded that Ura later became a vassal of Kibitsuhiko-nomikoto. （Contact：Okayama Prefectural Library）

Kibitsu-jinja Shrine

This shrine venerates Kibitsuhiko-no-Mikoto, the vanquisher of the ogre. The honden, built in the Hiyokuirimoya-zukuri architecutral style, and haiden buildings are designated as a national treasure.Cultural assets related to the legend of Momotaro, such as the Yaokiiwa and the Okamaden (kettle hall), can be found within the precincts.

Kibi no Nakayama

Kibi no Nakayama is a famous mountain that appears in the Kokin Wakashu poetry anthology and in the Pillow Book. According to legend, Kibitsuhiko-no-Mikoto built his camp here. This famous mountain has been the subject of poetry and a conveyor of stories down through the ages.

Bitchu Province Okibitsu-jinja Brief Histor

This is a document, created in the late Edo period, that records the origins of Kibitsu-jinja Shrine. It mentions the legend of Momotaro, and the name “Ura” also appears. It is recorded that Ura later became a vassal of Kibitsuhiko-nomikoto. （Contact：Okayama Prefectural Library）

Kibitsu-jinja Shrine Solicitation Book

The Kibitsu-jinja Shrine Solicitation Book is a record of Kibitsu-jinja Shrine created in 1583. It mentions the legend of Kibitsuhiko-no-Mikoto vanquishing an ogre, which means that at the very least, the legend of Momotaro existed at the time. This is the oldest literature from which the story of Momotaro defeating the demons has been passed down to the present day. （Contact：Okayama Prefectural Museum）

Kibi no Nakayama

Kibi no Nakayama is a famous mountain that appears in the Kokin Wakashu poetry anthology and in the Pillow Book. According to legend, Kibitsuhiko-no-Mikoto built his camp here. This famous mountain has been the subject of poetry and a conveyor of stories down through the ages.

Bitchu Province Okibitsu-jinja Brief Histor

This is a document, created in the late Edo period, that records the origins of Kibitsu-jinja Shrine. It mentions the legend of Momotaro, and the name “Ura” also appears. It is recorded that Ura later became a vassal of Kibitsuhiko-nomikoto. （Contact：Okayama Prefectural Library）

Kibitsu-jinja Shrine Solicitation Book

The Kibitsu-jinja Shrine Solicitation Book is a record of Kibitsu-jinja Shrine created in 1583. It mentions the legend of Kibitsuhiko-no-Mikoto vanquishing an ogre, which means that at the very least, the legend of Momotaro existed at the time. This is the oldest literature from which the story of Momotaro defeating the demons has been passed down to the present day. （Contact：Okayama Prefectural Museum）

Koikui-jinja Shrine（Koikui-jinja Shrine Ruins）

By transforming into a cormorant, Kibitsuhiko-no-mikoto was able to catch and vanquish Ura, who had changed into a carp to escape. Koikui-jinja Shrine was built to venerate the location where Ura was caught. There is also a burial mound from the Yayoi period here, and various artifacts have been unearthed. The tiled roof of Koikui-jinja Shrine actually contains the shape of a carp. Can you catch (find) the carp?

Bitchu Province Okibitsu-jinja Brief Histor

This is a document, created in the late Edo period, that records the origins of Kibitsu-jinja Shrine. It mentions the legend of Momotaro, and the name “Ura” also appears. It is recorded that Ura later became a vassal of Kibitsuhiko-nomikoto. （Contact：Okayama Prefectural Library）

Kibitsu-jinja Shrine Solicitation Book

The Kibitsu-jinja Shrine Solicitation Book is a record of Kibitsu-jinja Shrine created in 1583. It mentions the legend of Kibitsuhiko-no-Mikoto vanquishing an ogre, which means that at the very least, the legend of Momotaro existed at the time. This is the oldest literature from which the story of Momotaro defeating the demons has been passed down to the present day. （Contact：Okayama Prefectural Museum）

Koikui-jinja Shrine（Koikui-jinja Shrine Ruins）

By transforming into a cormorant, Kibitsuhiko-no-mikoto was able to catch and vanquish Ura, who had changed into a carp to escape. Koikui-jinja Shrine was built to venerate the location where Ura was caught. There is also a burial mound from the Yayoi period here, and various artifacts have been unearthed. The tiled roof of Koikui-jinja Shrine actually contains the shape of a carp. Can you catch (find) the carp?

Yaguinomiya-jinja Shrine

Yaguinomiya is a shrine that venerates the location where arrows shot by Kibitsuhiko-no-Mikoto and Ura during battle collided in mid-air and fell to the ground. A large stone that Ura is said to have thrown can be found in the precincts. Here, you are between the Tatetsuki Ruins , where Kibitsuhiko-no-mikoto established his army, and Kinojo Castle, which was Ura's base. Said to be the battleground where the arr…

Kibitsu-jinja Shrine Solicitation Book

The Kibitsu-jinja Shrine Solicitation Book is a record of Kibitsu-jinja Shrine created in 1583. It mentions the legend of Kibitsuhiko-no-Mikoto vanquishing an ogre, which means that at the very least, the legend of Momotaro existed at the time. This is the oldest literature from which the story of Momotaro defeating the demons has been passed down to the present day. （Contact：Okayama Prefectural Museum）

Koikui-jinja Shrine（Koikui-jinja Shrine Ruins）

By transforming into a cormorant, Kibitsuhiko-no-mikoto was able to catch and vanquish Ura, who had changed into a carp to escape. Koikui-jinja Shrine was built to venerate the location where Ura was caught. There is also a burial mound from the Yayoi period here, and various artifacts have been unearthed. The tiled roof of Koikui-jinja Shrine actually contains the shape of a carp. Can you catch (find) the carp?

Yaguinomiya-jinja Shrine

Yaguinomiya is a shrine that venerates the location where arrows shot by Kibitsuhiko-no-Mikoto and Ura during battle collided in mid-air and fell to the ground. A large stone that Ura is said to have thrown can be found in the precincts. Here, you are between the Tatetsuki Ruins , where Kibitsuhiko-no-mikoto established his army, and Kinojo Castle, which was Ura's base. Said to be the battleground where the arr…

Yaokiiwa and Yatate Shrine Ritual

A stone called Yaokiiwa on which Kibitsuhiko-no-mikoto placed his arrows during battle can be found at Kibitsu-jinja Shrine. The Yatate shrine ritual takes place nowadays at the shrine on January 3 each year. The Shinto ritual in which an arrow is shot high into the skies is powerful, and it feels almost as if the arrow flew towards Ura, the demon from the legend.

Koikui-jinja Shrine（Koikui-jinja Shrine Ruins）

By transforming into a cormorant, Kibitsuhiko-no-mikoto was able to catch and vanquish Ura, who had changed into a carp to escape. Koikui-jinja Shrine was built to venerate the location where Ura was caught. There is also a burial mound from the Yayoi period here, and various artifacts have been unearthed. The tiled roof of Koikui-jinja Shrine actually contains the shape of a carp. Can you catch (find) the carp?

Yaguinomiya-jinja Shrine

Yaguinomiya is a shrine that venerates the location where arrows shot by Kibitsuhiko-no-Mikoto and Ura during battle collided in mid-air and fell to the ground. A large stone that Ura is said to have thrown can be found in the precincts. Here, you are between the Tatetsuki Ruins , where Kibitsuhiko-no-mikoto established his army, and Kinojo Castle, which was Ura's base. Said to be the battleground where the arr…

Yaokiiwa and Yatate Shrine Ritual

A stone called Yaokiiwa on which Kibitsuhiko-no-mikoto placed his arrows during battle can be found at Kibitsu-jinja Shrine. The Yatate shrine ritual takes place nowadays at the shrine on January 3 each year. The Shinto ritual in which an arrow is shot high into the skies is powerful, and it feels almost as if the arrow flew towards Ura, the demon from the legend.

Sentaimonseki stone at Tatetsuki-jinja Shrine

The Sentaimonseki stone is the deity of Tatetsuki-jinja Shrine, located atop the Tatetsuki Ruins. The belt-shaped pattern carved into the stone demonstrates the outstanding carving techniques of the Yayoi period. Legend also has it that Kibitsuhiko-no-mikoto used it as a flying vehicle.

Yaguinomiya-jinja Shrine

Yaguinomiya is a shrine that venerates the location where arrows shot by Kibitsuhiko-no-Mikoto and Ura during battle collided in mid-air and fell to the ground. A large stone that Ura is said to have thrown can be found in the precincts. Here, you are between the Tatetsuki Ruins , where Kibitsuhiko-no-mikoto established his army, and Kinojo Castle, which was Ura's base. Said to be the battleground where the arr…

Yaokiiwa and Yatate Shrine Ritual

A stone called Yaokiiwa on which Kibitsuhiko-no-mikoto placed his arrows during battle can be found at Kibitsu-jinja Shrine. The Yatate shrine ritual takes place nowadays at the shrine on January 3 each year. The Shinto ritual in which an arrow is shot high into the skies is powerful, and it feels almost as if the arrow flew towards Ura, the demon from the legend.

Sentaimonseki stone at Tatetsuki-jinja Shrine

The Sentaimonseki stone is the deity of Tatetsuki-jinja Shrine, located atop the Tatetsuki Ruins. The belt-shaped pattern carved into the stone demonstrates the outstanding carving techniques of the Yayoi period. Legend also has it that Kibitsuhiko-no-mikoto used it as a flying vehicle.

Tatetsuki Ruins

This burial mound from the Yayoi period is one of the largest in the country. According to legend, the megalith on its summit was used as a shield by Kibitsuhiko-no-mikoto when he fought Ura.The megaliths placed in a circle look just like Stonehenge in the UK. From the top of the hill, you can see Kinojo Castle and you get a sense of that legendary world where Kibitsuhiko-no-mikoto battled with Ura.

Yaokiiwa and Yatate Shrine Ritual

A stone called Yaokiiwa on which Kibitsuhiko-no-mikoto placed his arrows during battle can be found at Kibitsu-jinja Shrine. The Yatate shrine ritual takes place nowadays at the shrine on January 3 each year. The Shinto ritual in which an arrow is shot high into the skies is powerful, and it feels almost as if the arrow flew towards Ura, the demon from the legend.

Sentaimonseki stone at Tatetsuki-jinja Shrine

The Sentaimonseki stone is the deity of Tatetsuki-jinja Shrine, located atop the Tatetsuki Ruins. The belt-shaped pattern carved into the stone demonstrates the outstanding carving techniques of the Yayoi period. Legend also has it that Kibitsuhiko-no-mikoto used it as a flying vehicle.

Tatetsuki Ruins

This burial mound from the Yayoi period is one of the largest in the country. According to legend, the megalith on its summit was used as a shield by Kibitsuhiko-no-mikoto when he fought Ura.The megaliths placed in a circle look just like Stonehenge in the UK. From the top of the hill, you can see Kinojo Castle and you get a sense of that legendary world where Kibitsuhiko-no-mikoto battled with Ura.

Oninokama (Ogre’s pot)

According to legend, this pot was used by Ura to boil people as sacrifices. In reality, however, it appears to be a kettle made for the people by the monk Chogen in the Kamakura period.

Sentaimonseki stone at Tatetsuki-jinja Shrine

The Sentaimonseki stone is the deity of Tatetsuki-jinja Shrine, located atop the Tatetsuki Ruins. The belt-shaped pattern carved into the stone demonstrates the outstanding carving techniques of the Yayoi period. Legend also has it that Kibitsuhiko-no-mikoto used it as a flying vehicle.

Tatetsuki Ruins

This burial mound from the Yayoi period is one of the largest in the country. According to legend, the megalith on its summit was used as a shield by Kibitsuhiko-no-mikoto when he fought Ura.The megaliths placed in a circle look just like Stonehenge in the UK. From the top of the hill, you can see Kinojo Castle and you get a sense of that legendary world where Kibitsuhiko-no-mikoto battled with Ura.

Oninokama (Ogre’s pot)

According to legend, this pot was used by Ura to boil people as sacrifices. In reality, however, it appears to be a kettle made for the people by the monk Chogen in the Kamakura period.

Mt. Kinojo(Kinojo Castle)

This is the mountain where the legendary ogre Ura is said to have lived. The enormous ancient mountain castle called Kinojo Castle once stood here. Today, a gate and corner tower have been restored.From the castle, you get a panoramic view of the streets of Okayama, which is where the legend is set. And on a clear day, you can see as far as Shikoku.

Tatetsuki Ruins

This burial mound from the Yayoi period is one of the largest in the country. According to legend, the megalith on its summit was used as a shield by Kibitsuhiko-no-mikoto when he fought Ura.The megaliths placed in a circle look just like Stonehenge in the UK. From the top of the hill, you can see Kinojo Castle and you get a sense of that legendary world where Kibitsuhiko-no-mikoto battled with Ura.

Oninokama (Ogre’s pot)

According to legend, this pot was used by Ura to boil people as sacrifices. In reality, however, it appears to be a kettle made for the people by the monk Chogen in the Kamakura period.

Mt. Kinojo(Kinojo Castle)

This is the mountain where the legendary ogre Ura is said to have lived. The enormous ancient mountain castle called Kinojo Castle once stood here. Today, a gate and corner tower have been restored.From the castle, you get a panoramic view of the streets of Okayama, which is where the legend is set. And on a clear day, you can see as far as Shikoku.

Chisuigawa River

Chisuigawa River is a river that flows from Mt. Kinojo. Legend has it that the river turned bright red from the blood of Ura, who was injured by an arrow shot by Kibitsuhiko-no-Mikoto. The river is said to have gotten its name because of its red color that resulted from a high iron content. (“Chi” in Japanese means “blood”.) （Contact：Soja City Tourism Project Section）

Oninokama (Ogre’s pot)

According to legend, this pot was used by Ura to boil people as sacrifices. In reality, however, it appears to be a kettle made for the people by the monk Chogen in the Kamakura period.

Mt. Kinojo(Kinojo Castle)

This is the mountain where the legendary ogre Ura is said to have lived. The enormous ancient mountain castle called Kinojo Castle once stood here. Today, a gate and corner tower have been restored.From the castle, you get a panoramic view of the streets of Okayama, which is where the legend is set. And on a clear day, you can see as far as Shikoku.

Chisuigawa River

Chisuigawa River is a river that flows from Mt. Kinojo. Legend has it that the river turned bright red from the blood of Ura, who was injured by an arrow shot by Kibitsuhiko-no-Mikoto. The river is said to have gotten its name because of its red color that resulted from a high iron content. (“Chi” in Japanese means “blood”.) （Contact：Soja City Tourism Project Section）

Yata-otsuka Burial Mound

This round burial mound is one of Kibi’s three large stone burial mounds. It is thought to be the family tomb of Shimotsumichi, one of the descendants of Kibitsuhiko-no-Mikoto’s brother.

Mt. Kinojo(Kinojo Castle)

This is the mountain where the legendary ogre Ura is said to have lived. The enormous ancient mountain castle called Kinojo Castle once stood here. Today, a gate and corner tower have been restored.From the castle, you get a panoramic view of the streets of Okayama, which is where the legend is set. And on a clear day, you can see as far as Shikoku.

Chisuigawa River

Chisuigawa River is a river that flows from Mt. Kinojo. Legend has it that the river turned bright red from the blood of Ura, who was injured by an arrow shot by Kibitsuhiko-no-Mikoto. The river is said to have gotten its name because of its red color that resulted from a high iron content. (“Chi” in Japanese means “blood”.) （Contact：Soja City Tourism Project Section）

Yata-otsuka Burial Mound

This round burial mound is one of Kibi’s three large stone burial mounds. It is thought to be the family tomb of Shimotsumichi, one of the descendants of Kibitsuhiko-no-Mikoto’s brother.

Kibidango (millet dumpling)

This is one of Okayama’s most famous confections. It is a millet dumpling designed to resemble dumplings that Momotaro gave to the dog, monkey, and pheasant when he vanquished the ogres, and during the Edo period, they would be sold by the gate to Kibitsu-jinja Shrine. There is a theory that the name "Kibi" is said to originate from the millet ("kibi") plant.

Experience Okayama hospitality with Ura mythology.

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Momotaro, Find the truth behind the legend.

Experience Okayama hospitality with Ura mythology.

NEWS Latest information

spotIntroduction to the constituentcultural properties

courseWalk the model course and tour Japan Heritage sites!

column I touredJapan Heritage spots！

movieThe story of Okayama on video

event Event information to help youenjoy Okayama

Experience Experience menu

Download Know more about Japan Heritage!

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NEWS
Latest information

spot
Introduction to the constituent
cultural properties

course
Walk the model course and tour Japan Heritage sites!

column
I toured
Japan Heritage spots！

movie
The story of Okayama
on video

event
Event information to help you
enjoy Okayama

Experience
Experience menu

Download
Know more about Japan Heritage!