There are legends about Minamoto no Yoshitsune and Musashibo Benkei all over Japan. There are several in Hokkaido, but the name of "Benkei Cape" in Suttsu Town is one of them. Did Benkei really visit Suttsu Town? Let's introduce the highlights of Benkei Cape. If you drive along National Route 229 from Suttsu towards Shimamaki, you will see a large statue of Musashibo Benkei. That is Cape Benkei. The height of the statue is 1.4m on the base and 3.6m on the body, so it is quite impressive. The name of Cape Benkei originated from the Ainu word "Per-kei," which means "a broken place," and was corrupted to "Benkei" so that it was easier for Japanese people to pronounce. As is often the case in Hokkaido, it originated from the Ainu language. In later times, a legend was told that Minamoto no Yoshitsune did not actually die in Iwate, but instead fled to Hokkaido... The cape seems to have become associated with Benkei as one of the locations in that legend. According to a legend passed down in Suttsu, Yoshitsune and Benkei stayed temporarily at the site of the current Benkei Cape. During that time, Benkei received information that Hitachibo Kaison, Benkei's younger brother, was heading to Ezo to help Yoshitsune rise again, so during his stay, Benkei always stood by the cape waiting for reinforcements.

Photo courtesy of Suttsu Camera Nishimura Nagisa

Unfortunately, Benkei never saw the ship, but knowing this legend and looking up at the large statue, one feels a little sad. By the way, this statue was built in 1987. It was installed as part of the development of Cape Benkei, a popular scenic spot for health and wellness. It is a relatively easy place to visit as it has a large parking lot. You can park your car and take your time contemplating the history. There is a rest area and toilets next to the parking lot, but please note that the toilets are closed during the winter. It is also famous as a spectacular spot to view the sunset, and even if you don't know its history or legends, there's no doubt that it is a great location. Be sure to stop by while sightseeing or on a drive. <Interview cooperation> Suttsu Town Office, Industry Promotion Division Address: 140-1 Oshimacho, Suttsu-cho, Suttsu-gun Official site: http://www.town.suttu.lg.jp/ Suttsu Town Board of Education Address: 187-1 Kaishin-cho, Suttsu-cho, Suttsu-gun Official site: http://www.town.suttu.lg.jp/ <Thumbnail photo provided by> Suttsu Camera Nishimura Nagisa