Have you ever stopped to think about the stories these old stones could tell? Right before us, the Saginomori-jinja Stele stands tall and proud. It’s a simple monument, yet its presence commands respect and whispers of a rich history.
Saginomori-jinja, or Saginomori Shrine, is a place of great historical significance. It’s said that it was established back in the Jogan era, somewhere between 859 and 877. The shrine used to be the guardian deity of seven villages at the foot of Mount Hiei. The stories tell how the shrine was once relocated due to the Onin War and other conflicts.
The inscription on the stele is actually quite interesting. It reads in part, “Eight heavy stones, eight stones, make a heavy stone.” The meaning is that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts, and that teamwork and cooperation are needed for success. This concept is truly reflected in how the Saginomori-jinja Stele has survived through the centuries. It represents a past that we can learn from and a reminder of the importance of preserving our heritage.