Nogamishimogō Stele, stone memorial monument

The Nogamishimogō Stele is a schist itabi (stone stele) in Nagatoro, Saitama Prefecture, standing 5.37 meters tall, 1.2 meters wide and 12 centimeters thick on a pedestal of the same stone. Its flat face bears the Sanskrit seed syllable for Shaka Nyōrai, four lines of the Mantra of Light, and a 1369 date with a dedication for Ani Kazunao, castellan of Nakayama Castle.

The monument was created in 1369 by Ani Kazunao's widow, Myōen-ni, to honor his memory and offer spiritual prayers for his soul. This type of memorial stone became common during the Muromachi period when Buddhism played a central role in people's lives and memorial practices.

The stele is also called the Tendo Dainichi Nyorai Monument. Its Sanskrit inscription is the Mantra of Light, used in Shingon and Kegon rites, and the lower text is a four-line verse from the Lotus Sutra dedicating merit to all beings. Local tradition holds that Ani Kazunao's widow, Myōen-ni, erected it for her husband.

The monument is easily accessible on foot from Higuchi Station, about a seven-minute walk away through the quiet town. The surrounding area is peaceful with natural greenery, making it a pleasant spot to visit while exploring Nagatoro's history.

This is the largest itabi monument of its kind in Japan and was designated a National Historic Site in 1928. Its exceptional size and detailed carvings make it a particularly valuable example of medieval Japanese stonework and craftsmanship.