Sessho-seki (Killing Stone)

The Nasu Highlands sit nestled at the foot of the 1,915-meter high Nasu Mountains, home to a legendary boulder known as the Sessho-seki (the Killing Stone). The surrounding terrain is speckled with rugged rocks, creating a desolate landscape that you won’t find elsewhere. As the tale tells, the Sessho-seki was once the Nine-Tailed Fox, a wicked creature from ancient China, that transformed into this stone. It is recognized as a powerful spiritual site and has been designated as a National Scenic Beauty.

The air around Sessho-seki is filled with the smell of sulfur, and toxic volcanic gases are emitted from the ground. It’s known that wildlife like tanuki and foxes have died here due to the gases. Although there are well-manicured walking paths and many tourists visit the site, caution is advised for those with pets or small children.

Every May, the Gojinkasai Fire Festival is held here. Participants, dressed in white robes, carry torches in a procession from Nasu Onsen Shrine to Sessho-seki. The festival also features a powerful performance of the Nine-Tailed Fox Drum.