The Legend of Hitoyoshi Castle — A historic symbol of samurai legacy.
Aoi Aso Temple
An ancient plaque at Aoi Aso Shrine—a Japan’s National Treasure built according to Feng Shui principles—reads:
The pond to the south will reflect the image of the gods; the north will block the clamor of human life; the castle towering to the east will ward off the invasion of fierce tribes; and the forest spreading to the west will protect against storms and fire.
Therefore, this place is most suitable for enshrining the gods.” From another perspective, Aoi Aso Shrine can be viewed as a location aligned with the Four Symbols of Feng Shui.
The Four Symbols are the spiritual beasts known as the Azure Dragon, the Vermilion Bird, the White Tiger, and the Black Tortoise.
There is also a belief that a pond protected by these four symbols is a “land of eternal good fortune” that will be blessed with wealth and prosperity for generations to come.
Incarnation of the Aoi Aso Temple