牛若・弁慶像 Statue

Sculpted in Kitagi stone, the Ushiwakamaru and Benkei Statue stands as a silent testament to a legendary duel. Here at the foot of Gojo Bridge in Kyoto, these two figures are frozen in a perpetual clash of wills. The statue, a gift to Kyoto city in 1961, captures the very moment young Ushiwakamaru, later known as Minamoto no Yoshitsune, faced the formidable warrior monk Benkei. The Ushiwakamaru and Benkei Statue embodies the spirit of Kyoto’s rich history. This iconic landmark depicts a pivotal scene from Japanese folklore. The story goes that Benkei, a giant of a man, had collected 999 swords from defeated swordsmen on this very bridge. He was on the hunt for his thousandth when he encountered the slight, youthful Ushiwakamaru. Benkei, confident in his immense strength and skill, challenged the boy. But Ushiwakamaru, trained in swordsmanship by the mythical Tengu king, possessed a swiftness and intelligence that outmatched Benkei’s brute force. The Ushiwakamaru and Benkei Statue captures the dynamism of this duel. Ushiwakamaru’s poised stance and Benkei’s powerful, yet ultimately defeated posture, tell a story of courage and loyalty. Impressed by Ushiwakamaru’s skill, Benkei pledged his unwavering loyalty. He became Yoshitsune’s most trusted retainer, fighting alongside him through countless battles. The sculptor, Ogosho Eizo, whose real name was Kakuemon Ogosho, perfectly captured this turning point in Japanese history. The Ushiwakamaru and Benkei Statue serves as a constant reminder of their legendary encounter. It is a popular spot for visitors and locals alike. The statue is a favorite photo opportunity, reminding us of the enduring power of legends.