Guide
Yamanoue-no-hi is a significant stone monument located in Nama-machi, Takasaki City, Gunma Prefecture. Erected in 681 AD during the Asuka period, it is considered the oldest stone monument of its kind to remain in a complete state in Japan. This monument serves as a vital historical site that illustrates the daily lives of ancient people, the introduction of Chinese character culture from the continent, and how Buddhism became rooted in Japanese society. Today, it is designated as a Special Historic Site along with the adjacent Yamanoue Kofun.
The monument was erected in 681 AD by a monk named Chori, who served at Hokko-ji Temple, in honor of his mother, Kurometo-ji. The inscription details the lineage of Chori's mother and her paternal family. His mother was a descendant of Kenju, a manager of the Sano family in the Yamato administration, while the paternal side belonged to the Nikawa clan, a powerful family located at the southern foot of Mount Akagi. Based on the discovery of roof tiles inscribed with "Hokko-ji" at the Sanno-hai own temple in Maebashi, it is believed that the Hokko-ji where Chori served was indeed this temple. This connection highlights the advanced nature of Buddhist thought during that era.
The primary attractions are the monument itself and the adjacent Yamanoue Kofun. The monument is crafted from hard spathic andesite, measuring 111 cm in height, 47 cm in width, and 52 cm in thickness. The front features 53 Chinese characters arranged in four vertical columns, showcasing a unique Japanese way of using characters through the word order of the time. The nearby Yamanoue Kofun is a circular tumulus with a diameter of 15 meters, featuring a stone chamber with a lateral entrance made of locally sourced tuff. The tumulus is estimated to have been constructed in the first half to middle of the 7th century, making it several decades older than the monument, and is believed to be the tomb of Kurometo-ji.
Yamanoue-no-hi and the Yamanoue Kofun are open-air historical sites. While there are no seasonal restrictions, it is best to visit during bright daylight hours to clearly observe the fine details of the characters and the structure of the stone masonry. A peaceful stroll through the surroundings allows you to trace the footsteps of history at your own pace.
Visitors can experience the connection between ancient families and the transmission of culture through the written word. By deciphering the story of "Chori honoring his mother," you can reflect on the lives of people from over 1,300 years ago. Additionally, observing the structure of the lateral-entry stone chamber in the tumulus provides a practical way to learn about ancient burial techniques and architectural styles.
The area is dotted with other historical monuments known as the "Jonou Sanbi" (Three Monuments of Jonou), such as the Tago-hi and Kanaizawa-hi monuments. These are all significant cultural heritages related to the "Memory of the World." Takasaki City also hosts many other historical remains, making it an excellent destination for a historical walking tour.
As Yamanoue-no-hi is an outdoor historical site, the terrain is not entirely flat. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. To better observe the inscriptions, you may wish to bring a notebook or a camera for detailed photography. Please respect the site and refrain from touching the monument or the structures of the tumulus.