Here stands a monument to loyalty. It is the \u6b63\u4e00\u4f4d\u548c\u6c17\u6e05\u9ebb\u5442\u516c\u5893 Stele. Today we honor a man who shaped Kyoto’s destiny.
\u6b63\u4e00\u4f4d\u548c\u6c17\u6e05\u9ebb\u5442\u516c\u5893 Stele marks the tribute to Wake no Kiyomaro. He was a Nara period official who lived from 733 to 799. The stele commemorates his contributions. He is a figure of immense historical importance.
Wake no Kiyomaro served Emperor Kanmu. He played a key role in moving the capital. He advised the emperor to relocate from Nagaoka-kyo. He suggested Heian-kyo which is modern Kyoto.
But Wake no Kiyomaro’s path was not easy. The priest Dokyo rose to power. He manipulated Empress Koken. Dokyo sought the throne. He claimed divine approval from the Usa Hachiman Shrine.
Wake no Kiyomaro was sent to verify this claim. He returned with a different message. The oracle truly stated only Amaterasu’s descendants could rule. This angered Dokyo greatly.
Dokyo falsely accused Wake no Kiyomaro. He was exiled and his legs were wounded. Legend says 300 wild boars protected him. They escorted him 40 kilometers to safety. His legs were miraculously healed near Usa Hachiman. Boars became his sacred symbols.
With Empress Shotoku’s death, Dokyo fell. Emperor Konin recalled Wake no Kiyomaro. He was appointed governor and minister. Wake no Kiyomaro investigated fraudulent oracles. He exposed corruption in the Usa Shrine.
The \u6b63\u4e00\u4f4d\u548c\u6c17\u6e05\u9ebb\u5442\u516c\u5893 Stele stands near the Imperial Palace. It is near Go-o Jinja Shrine. This relocation honored Wake no Kiyomaro. Once, his image appeared on the ten-yen note.
Wake no Kiyomaro’s legacy is significant. He represents loyalty. He embodies courage. He defended the imperial line. He helped establish Kyoto. His spirit is venerated. He is remembered as the protector of Kyoto.
The \u6b63\u4e00\u4f4d\u548c\u6c17\u6e05\u9ebb\u5442\u516c\u5893 Stele ensures Wake no Kiyomaro is never forgotten. He is a symbol of devotion. He is a guardian of Kyoto’s past and future. Remember Wake no Kiyomaro and his unwavering commitment.