車石 Stele

Nestled amidst the bustling streets of Kyoto, the Kuruma-ishi, or Vehicle Stones, whisper tales of a bygone era. The Kuruma-ishi, also known as the Kuruma-michi or Stone Routes, weren’t your typical roads. These were specifically designed pathways for oxcarts, offering a smoother passage through the city and surrounding mountain passes. Imagine Kyoto in the 18th and 19th centuries, during the Edo period. Goods needed to be transported into the heart of the city. But Kyoto, unlike coastal cities like Tokyo and Osaka, presented a unique challenge. Its inland location made carting materials difficult. So, these stone routes provided a vital lifeline. The Kuruma-ishi were strategically placed alongside three major highways: the Tokaido, the Takeda-Kaido, and the Toba-Kaido. These stone paths were approximately 2.7 meters wide. They featured two rows of large stones, each measuring around 30 cm x 60 cm x 25 cm. These stones acted like rails, guiding the oxcarts along the route. A 90 cm wide center path remained clear for the oxen to walk. This ingenious design proved particularly useful during rainy periods. The stones prevented the oxcarts from getting bogged down in muddy conditions, ensuring a steady flow of goods into Kyoto. The Kuruma-ishi played a crucial role in Kyoto’s development during this period. Sadly, with the arrival of railways in the 19th century, these stone routes were largely dismantled. The stones were repurposed for other projects, their original function fading into memory. However, here and there, remnants of these historic pathways can still be found. The very Kuruma-ishi we stand before are a testament to this innovative transportation system. They offer a tangible connection to Kyoto’s rich past. In 2013, a dedicated group formed the Association of Vehicle Stones and Stone Routes Research. Their mission is to study and preserve the history of these remarkable pathways. The Kuruma-ishi, once vital arteries of commerce, now stand as silent witnesses to Kyoto’s ingenuity and resourcefulness.