Legends about Minamoto no Yoshitsune and Musashibo Benkei can be found all over Japan. Hokkaido has its fair share, and among them, Cape Benkei in Suttsu Town is, as its name suggests, directly linked to the famous warrior monk. Did Benkei truly visit Suttsu Town? Let's explore the highlights of Cape Benkei and the stories behind it.

As you drive along National Route 229 from Suttsu towards Shimamaki, a large statue of Musashibo Benkei will come into view. That's Cape Benkei. The statue is quite impressive, with its pedestal measuring 1.4 meters and the figure itself standing at 3.6 meters tall.
The name Cape Benkei (Benkei Misaki) is said to have originated from the Ainu word "per-kei," meaning "a broken place." Over time, the pronunciation was adapted by the Wajin (ethnic Japanese) to the more familiar "Benkei." This linguistic evolution, where place names originate from the Ainu language, is a common occurrence in Hokkaido.
In later years, a legend emerged that Minamoto no Yoshitsune did not actually die in Iwate Prefecture but instead escaped to Hokkaido. This cape became one of the settings for that legend, linking the place with Benkei.
According to the legend passed down in Suttsu, Yoshitsune and Benkei temporarily stayed at the site of what is now Cape Benkei. During their stay, they received information that one of Benkei's retainers, Hitachibo Kaison, was heading to Ezo (the old name for Hokkaido) to help Yoshitsune rise again. It is said that Benkei constantly stood on the cape, waiting for reinforcements.

Photo courtesy of Nagisa Nishimura, Suttsu Camera

Unfortunately, Benkei never saw the ships he was waiting for. Knowing this legend and looking up at the grand statue can evoke a sense of melancholy. The statue was erected in 1987 as part of the development of Cape Benkei, which was already a popular scenic spot for health and recreation.
The site is relatively easy to visit, with a large parking lot available. It's a great place to park your car and take a moment to ponder the history of the area.
There is a rest area and restrooms next to the parking lot, but please note that the restrooms are closed during the winter.
The cape is also famous as a spectacular spot for watching the sunset. Even if you don't know the history or legends, there's no denying it's a stunning location.

Whether you're sightseeing or just out for a drive, be sure to stop by.

＜Special Thanks＞
Suttsu Town Hall, Industrial Promotion Division
Address: 140-1, Oshima-cho, Suttsu-cho, Suttsu-gun
Official Website: http://www.town.suttu.lg.jp/

Suttsu Town Board of Education
Address: 187-1, Kaishin-cho, Suttsu-cho, Suttsu-gun
Official Website: http://www.town.suttu.lg.jp/

＜Thumbnail Photo Provided By＞
Nagisa Nishimura, Suttsu Camera