Introduction to Hitoyoshi’s History and Culture

Hitoyoshi is known as “Little Kyoto.” The atmosphere of 700 years ago continues today. Feel the classic Japanese lifestyle and culture in this nostalgic town.

Hitoyoshi Castle Ruins

The Sagara dynasty ruled Hitoyoshi Kuma for 700 years. The castle was built using modern techniques of the time. Now, only its ruins remain. King Sagara was commanded to rule this area by the chief samurai king, Minamoto. The castle was founded along the Kuma River. Castle construction began in the 15^th century. The stone wall, still standing today, was begun in 1589. The Sagara dynasty continued for many years because it allied itself with the ever-changing chief samurai kings. Therefore, the Sagara dynasty protected the Hitoyoshi Kuma area. The castle was destroyed several times by fire and rebuilt. One unusual architectural technique seen here is “mushagaeshi,” for the defense of enemy invaders as well as protection against future fires. The most recent construction of the castle was destroyed as a result of a change in political power. Numerous turret, gate and earthen wall reproductions have been newly reconstructed.

Sagara Family Insignia

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Aoi Aso Shrine

The shrine was founded in 806. It has over 1200 years of rich history. The structures seen today are over 400 years old. The shrine showcases architecture seen only in Hitoyoshi Kuma. Wooden carvings seen here are characteristic of techniques used 400 years ago. Five structures were designated National Treasures in 2008. These structures are: gate, main hall, corridor, offering hall and oratory. Aoi Aso Shrine was the first national treasure in Kumamoto Prefecture. It is the southernmost national treasure in all of Japan. It is the only shrine in Japan with national treasure status to have a thatched roof. Under the roof of the gate, you can see carvings in each corner. These carvings represent different human emotions: happiness, anger, sadness and pleasure. These carvings are an original style seen only here, known as “Hitoyoshi” style. On the ceiling of the gate, you can see paintings of dragons.

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Eikokuji Temple

The temple was founded in 1408 by the Buddhist monk named Jitei. Famously known as the “Ghost Temple,” monk Jitei painted a ghost seen rising from the temple’s pond. This scroll painting is still kept in the temple even today. The temple gate is 2 meters high. You can see a pair of wooden statues in the gate acting as temple guardians. The upper balcony of the gate has the grand temple bell which when rung, reverberates throughout Hitoyoshi. During the Satsuma Rebellion of 1877, the famous Saigo Takamori and his men used the temple for their headquarters. The main hall of the temple was destroyed by fire during this war. It was reconstructed in 1891. The main hall was renovated in 2017.

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Pilgrimage of 33 Statues of Kannon

In harmony with nature, numerous statues of Kannon are spread throughout the Hitoyoshi Kuma area. The statues of Kannon are jewels of the area because of the depth of tradition and variation of meaning associated with each Kannon. The Kannon are special because they are not property of temples or shrines. The Kannon have survived to the present day thanks to the care and protection of the local people living close to nature. The statues of Kannon were created in about 1200. Each face depicts simplicity and mercy. When you see the face of Kannon, you can feel a sense of healing. During the spring and fall equinox, the statues of Kannon are open for viewing to pilgrims. Many visitors from all over Kyushu come to see the Kannon. The custom of making a pilgrimage began about 400 years ago. A pilgrimage to all statues of Kannon makes a full loop of the Hitoyoshi Kuma area. At each Kannon, local people welcome visitors with tea and homemade snacks. Communication with the friendly locals is truly a fun and unique experience. We warmly invite you to enjoy a leisurely pilgrimage amidst the beautiful views in spring and fall.

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