DISCOVER FUKUI

The area around Kinome Pass, which divides Fukui Prefecture into the northern and southern regions, is historically fascinating with many preserved historical sites. Today, Hachifusuyama features the Imajō 365 Ski Resort, making hiking to the summit an easily accessible activity. On clear days, views from the summit include the Hakusan mountain range, the Sea of Japan, the Mikata Five Lakes, and Lake Biwa. Walking north from Kinome Pass along the historic road leads to the Konna Jizō statue. Legend holds that a horse driver named Gonroku, who had committed murder, begged the Jizō statue, "Please don't tell anyone," to keep the crime secret. The statue replied, "I won't tell, but you mustn't either." Gonroku then fled the mountain. Years later, when he passed this spot again and told the story to a fellow traveler he was escorting, he discovered the traveler was the son of the man he had killed. Bound by fate, Gonroku was avenged."