In the mountains of Tatsuwaresan in Hitachi City, Ibaraki Prefecture, stands Tachiwarishi, a rock that looks strikingly similar to the one Tanjiro cut in Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba. As hikers approach this natural wonder, they are reminded of Tanjiro’s iconic training scene, making the site a sacred destination for fans and adventurers alike.
What is Tachiwarishi?
Tachiwarishi is a giant split rock located along the mountain trail of Tatsuwaresan. Although created by natural forces, it bears a sharp fissure that looks as if it was cut by a sword, which is why it is called “Tachiwarishi” (sword-split rock).
When you stand before it, its height of several meters and its smooth cut surface are overwhelming. Fans immediately associate it with the boulder that Tanjiro Kamado cut during his training in Demon Slayer.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Height | Several meters |
| Shape | A sharp crack formed by natural forces |
| Highlights | Appears as if sliced by a blade, symbol of training |
Tatsuwaresan and Its Connection to Tachiwarishi
Tatsuwaresan is a 658-meter mountain straddling Hitachi City and Hitachiota City in Ibaraki Prefecture. Known since ancient times as a sacred mountain of Shugendo training, it is dotted with shrines and stone Buddhas. Among its paths lies Tachiwarishi, one of the most remarkable sights encountered on the way to the summit.
The mountain’s name itself, “Tatsuwaresan,” is said to mean “mountain that splits hard rocks,” which resonates with the existence of Tachiwarishi. The mountain as a whole represents the harmony of history and nature, long serving as a stage for spiritual practice.
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Elevation | 658 meters |
| Location | Hitachi City / Hitachiota City, Ibaraki |
| Characteristics | Sacred Shugendo mountain with historical background |
| Landmarks | Tachiwarishi, stone Buddhas, panoramic summit views |
A Sacred Place for Demon Slayer Fans
The scene in Demon Slayer where Tanjiro attempts to split a massive boulder is one of the most iconic moments symbolizing growth. Because Tachiwarishi so closely resembles that boulder, it has become regarded by fans as the “real training rock.”
Visitors often pose with swords in front of the rock, recreating anime scenes for photos. On social media, posts saying “I visited Tanjiro’s training ground” are widespread, solidifying Tachiwarishi as a pilgrimage destination.
| Fan Activities | Details |
|---|---|
| Photography | Posing with swords, recreating anime scenes |
| Social Media | Sharing pilgrimage experiences online |
| Emotional Experience | Relating personal challenges to Tanjiro’s training |
Access to Tachiwarishi
To reach Tachiwarishi, hikers must follow the mountain trails of Tatsuwaresan. There are several trailheads, and from each it takes about an hour to reach the rock.
| Transportation | Details |
|---|---|
| Car | 30 minutes from Joban Expressway, Hitachi-Chuo IC |
| Train | 40 minutes by taxi from JR Hitachi-Taga Station |
| On Foot | About 1 hour from trailhead to Tachiwarishi |
Although the paths are relatively well maintained, some steep and rocky sections exist, making hiking shoes and comfortable clothing essential. Each season offers its charm: fresh green in spring, cool breezes in summer, vivid foliage in autumn, and crisp clear air in winter.
Historical Background of Tatsuwaresan and Tachiwarishi
Since ancient times, Tatsuwaresan has been revered as a sacred mountain and a training site for ascetics. Stone monuments and small shrines remain scattered along its trails. Within this spiritual setting, Tachiwarishi stood as a symbol of trials, where practitioners trained their minds and bodies.
Knowing this history deepens the connection to Demon Slayer. Tanjiro’s struggle to cut the rock mirrors the hardships faced by Shugendo practitioners in their quest to overcome limits. At this point, fiction and reality seem to resonate together.
How to Enjoy a Pilgrimage to Tachiwarishi
The appeal of visiting Tachiwarishi goes beyond photography. The surrounding nature and history provide a richer experience.
- Visit the shrines and stone Buddhas along the trail
- Enjoy the sweeping view of the Pacific Ocean from the summit
- Experience the beauty of the changing seasons
| Season | Experience |
|---|---|
| Spring | Fresh green forests with birdsong |
| Summer | Cool breezes under shady trees |
| Autumn | Brilliant foliage contrasting with the rock |
| Winter | Clear air and long-distance panoramic views |
This transforms a pilgrimage into not just sightseeing, but a journey of the heart.
Conclusion
Tachiwarishi is a natural wonder shaped by geological forces, yet at the same time, it is a sacred place for Demon Slayer fans. With the history and natural beauty of Tatsuwaresan, the site is appealing not only to anime enthusiasts but also to hikers and history lovers.
Standing before Tachiwarishi, reminiscent of Tanjiro’s trial, one may reflect on personal challenges and the value of perseverance. When visiting Ibaraki, do not miss Tatsuwaresan and Tachiwarishi, where nature and story converge into a unique experience.
