Sixteen Arhat Rock Carvings and Votive Stone Buddhas (十六羅漢岩供養石仏群)

Flow of the course

About this spot

A group of cliff-carved Buddhist images with a total of 22 Buddha statues, including 16 arhat images, carved directly into the rocky shores that jut out from Fukiura's coast. In the late Edo period, Kankai, a monk from the local Kaizen Temple, wished to honor the memory of fishermen who lost their lives in the Sea of Japan and ensure maritime safety. Working with local stonemasons, the carvings were completed in the early Meiji period after five years of labor. For over 150 years, these simple-faced Buddhas have watched over the sea while being battered by rough waves, and visitors can approach them closely via the walking path. Encountering them amid the sound of waves and sea breeze stirs something profound in the heart. The site is also known as a famous sunset viewing spot—the sea tinted in crimson and the silhouettes of rocky shores create a dramatic scene perfect for concluding your day. The "Sunset Sixteen Arhat" observation platform offers sweeping views of the arhat rocks and sea.

Tips

About 5 minutes by car from Fukiura Kuchinogu Shrine; there is a free parking area and viewing facility along National Route 345. The walking path on the rocky shore can become wet and slippery from sea spray, so watch your footing carefully, and do not approach the rocks when the sea is rough. If waiting for sunset, wear a windbreaker for comfort.

Best time to visit

Allow approximately 1 hour. Late afternoon before sunset offers the most dramatic scenery, though if you wish to examine the rock carvings closely, visit while there is still daylight.

Access & map

〒999-8521 Yamagata Prefecture, Akumi District, Yusa Town, Fukiura Nishi-Tate