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In the heart of Aomori Prefecture, nestled within the serene expanse of Hirosaki City, there stands an ancient oak tree, known to the locals as the "Kishin Koshikake Kashiwa"—the "Oak of the Demon’s Rest." This venerable tree, estimated to be around 700 years old, rises to a height of 11 meters, with a trunk circumference of 3.6 meters. Its gnarled branches stretch out horizontally, creating a canopy that seems to embrace the land beneath. The tree's core is hollow, and at approximately 1.9 meters above the ground, it divides into sprawling limbs, some of which extend so far that their tips touch the earth, forming natural arches over the pathways. (city.hirosaki.aomori.jp)
Surrounded by lush apple orchards, this oak is not merely a botanical wonder but a living testament to the rich tapestry of local folklore. It serves as the sacred embodiment of the Ōyamazumi Shrine, revered by the community for centuries. (pref.aomori.lg.jp)
The legend tells of a time when a villager named Yajūrō befriended a great being from Mount Iwaki, referred to as the "Ōhito" or "Demon." Their friendship blossomed beneath the boughs of this very oak. The demon, seated comfortably in the crook of the tree, would share wisdom and stories with Yajūrō. In gratitude, Yajūrō would bring offerings of food, and in return, the demon aided the villagers by tilling their fields and constructing irrigation channels, bringing prosperity to the land. Over time, the villagers began to call this tree the "Kishin Koshikake Kashiwa," honoring the place where the benevolent demon once rested. (pref.aomori.lg.jp)
This tale is deeply woven into the cultural fabric of the region. In the nearby village of Onizawa, the demon is venerated as a deity. The local shrine, known as "Kishin Shrine," enshrines the tools believed to have been used by the demon—massive farming implements that symbolize the aid provided to the villagers. Notably, the character for "demon" (鬼) in the shrine's name is written without the traditional "horns" (ノ), signifying the demon's benevolent nature. During the Setsubun festival, a time when people traditionally drive away demons, the villagers of Onizawa instead invite them in, chanting, "Fortune in, demons in!" This unique practice underscores the community's reverence for the demon as a protector and benefactor. (kotsugaru.com)
The oak itself stands as a silent witness to these stories, its branches whispering the ancient secrets of the land. The tree's unusual growth pattern, with limbs extending horizontally and some touching the ground, creates natural alcoves that invite visitors to sit and reflect. The surrounding apple orchards, with their blossoms in spring and fruit in autumn, add to the picturesque setting, making it a place of both natural beauty and historical significance.
Visiting this site offers more than just a glimpse into the region's past; it provides a tangible connection to the stories that have shaped the community's identity. The "Oak of the Demon’s Rest" is not merely a tree; it is a living monument to the harmony between humans and the supernatural, a testament to the belief that even beings from folklore can be allies and friends.
As you stand beneath its sprawling branches, you can almost hear the echoes of laughter between Yajūrō and the demon, feel the shared camaraderie, and sense the deep respect that has been passed down through generations. It's a place where the lines between myth and reality blur, inviting all who visit to become part of its enduring story.