Kurikara Prefectural Park

Kurikara Prefectural Park is the site of the Battle of Kurikara, fought between the rival samurai clans of the Genji and the Heike nearly 800 years ago.
The powerful cattle statues near the peak of the hill tell the story of the fire bulls (bulls with flaming torches tied to their horns) that military commander Minamoto no Yoshinaka used to seize victory in the fierce battle. The park is wonderful as a hiking course, where 6,000 double-cherry blossom trees bloom in spring, and in autumn, the colors are beautiful.
At the base of the park is the 1,300 year-old Hanyu Gokoku Hachimangu Shrine, famous as the shrine to which Minamoto no Yoshinaka prayed for victory. The shrine is known as a powerful spot for granting both victory and success in love.