Gyūba-dōji Statue, Stone sculpture at Hashiori-toge Pass, Tanabe, Japan
Gyuba-doji Statue sits at the summit of Hashiori-toge Pass along the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trail. The stone carving depicts a figure on horseback, serving as a notable landmark where the mountain path opens to views of surrounding valleys.
The statue honors a historical figure who undertook pilgrimages in this region during the 10th century, establishing precedent for the Kumano Kodo route. These early journeys transformed this pass into a significant waypoint for spiritual travelers.
The statue reflects how Buddhism and pilgrimage traditions shaped this mountain pass over time. Today, visitors see it as a spiritual landmark where many travelers have paused to rest or pray.
The statue can be reached by hiking a trail that takes roughly one and a half hours from the lower trailhead. Bus service connects this area to nearby towns, making it accessible for visitors planning a day hike or longer walk.
Ancient stone steps descend from the pass toward the valley below, worn smooth by centuries of pilgrim feet. The weathered surface of each step reveals the countless journeys taken along this historic route.
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