(Highlights)

According to the explanation of the Board of Education of a city in Fukuoka prefecture in western Japan, there once was a "ronin", a masterless Samurai, and his wife, who were originally from the neighboring prefecture but got settled in the village which is now a part of the city. They made riches through hard work and spent part of their money for the construction of irrigation channels and other facilities for the benefit of the villagers. But, there were those who envied the couple`s wealth. Accordingly, they brutally murdered the good-natured man and woman.

Soon afterward, epidemics and fires broke out in that village one after another, which made the villagers to believe the couple`s souls are causing the disasters. So, in 1816, they built a memorial tower, which is now called "Jofukuden-no-hokketo", to console the spirits of the gentle couple. Peace again prevailed in the village.

It may be convenient for you if you have plans to visit other cities in Kyusyu, such as Nagasaki, since this tour alone may not match the cost.

(How to enjoy)

Have a look at and read the roadside information board explaining about the memorial tower, then walk on the narrow path leading to the tower which is some two meters high. You can imagine how ugly as well as beautiful human hearts are.

(Others)

(1) The transportation fare between JR Kyoto and Hakata on the reserved Shinkansen train seat is 21,350 yen and the local train fare between Hakata and Keisen is 560 yen. The taxi fare will be some 4,000 yen per one way.

(2) Please take note of it that this tour is possible only in August and in January when I visit my folks in that area, which is my home town.