English Version
Kubizuka Daimyojin in Nishikyo Ward, Kyoto, is surrounded by unsettling rumors. Some visitors claim that orb-like lights can appear in photos even in broad daylight. Others whisper that passing through the torii gate may bring a curse.
According to local legend, this is the place where the severed head of Shuten-doji was buried after he was defeated by Minamoto no Yorimitsu and his companions. Shuten-doji is remembered in Japanese folklore as one of the most powerful oni, a monstrous figure said to have committed violent acts around the Kyoto area.
The mound is also said to have a more protective side. Some believe it can help heal illnesses affecting the head, neck, or anything above the shoulders, and people suffering from those kinds of conditions are said to visit and pray there.
Even during the day, the area is quiet with few people passing by. At night, the atmosphere reportedly becomes even more eerie. If you visit, go respectfully, avoid trespassing or entering restricted areas, and consider visiting during daylight hours.
Location: Oe-Kutsukakecho, Nishikyo Ward, Kyoto City, Kyoto Prefecture
Japanese Language
昼間でもオーブが撮れる。鳥居をくぐると呪われる。といった噂がある。かつて源頼光らによって征伐された「酒呑童子」の首が埋められた場所として言い伝えられている。なお「酒呑童子」とは、当時の京都付近で暴挙の限りを尽くした日本史上で最強の”鬼”。首塚は首から上の病を治療するとも言われており、首や頭部の病を抱えた人々が訪れるとのこと。昼間でも人通りは少ないが夜になると不気味さが一層増す。京都府京都市西京区大枝沓掛町
