Ishi-no-Hōden, Archaeological site in Takasago, Japan
Ishi-no-Hōden is an archaeological site in Takasago, Japan, where a huge tuff block sits on natural bedrock. The block features carved recesses all around its base and displays a triangular raised section at the back made from the same material.
A text from 715 mentions the stone block as a notable feature of the area and refers to ancient local legends. The carving marks suggest people began a monumental religious project here very long ago.
The name comes from Japanese and means stone palace or stone shrine, reflecting the religious importance people attach to this site. Visitors today see worshippers treating the carved block as a sacred object and performing traditional rituals around it.
The site lies about 2 km from Hoden Station and offers parking for visitors arriving by car. A small admission fee is collected on-site, and the visit usually takes less than an hour.
Water collects in the hollowed areas beneath the block and makes it appear to float above the ground. This optical effect is especially clear after rainfall, when the carved recesses fill with water.
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