Hashi Benkei Yama is a traditional yama float featured during the Ato Matsuri of Kyoto’s Gion Matsuri. It depicts a famous encounter between the warrior monk Benkei and the young Ushiwakamaru, who later became known as Minamoto no Yoshitsune.
The story of Hashi Benkei Yama takes place on Kyoto’s historic Gojo Bridge. According to the legend, Benkei challenged Ushiwakamaru after meeting him on the bridge. Despite Benkei’s great strength, Ushiwakamaru defeated him with remarkable speed and skill. Impressed by the young warrior, Benkei became his loyal companion.
The Hashi Benkei scene is dramatically represented on the float. Ushiwakamaru is shown balancing on one foot on the bridge railing while facing Benkei, capturing the action and tension of their legendary encounter.
Through its figures and traditional craftsmanship, Hashi Benkei Yama preserves one of Japan’s best-known warrior legends. The float shows how Gion Matsuri brings historical stories and cultural traditions to life through the art of its yamaboko.
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