Sesshoseki (Killing Stone)
A legendary, cracked boulder in a stark volcanic landscape, said to trap an evil fox spirit and bring death.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best views and easier access
Sesshoseki (Killing Stone)
Best Time
Best views and easier access
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A legendary, cracked boulder in a stark volcanic landscape, said to trap an evil fox spirit and bring death.
"The history and legend make it more fun, even with the strong onsen scent."
👃 Brace for the Sulfur Smell
The strong scent of hydrogen sulfide is pervasive. It's part of the experience, but can be overwhelming for some!
🚶♀️ Short & Sweet Visit
Sesshoseki is a quick stop. Allow 30-60 minutes to read the signs and take photos.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Sesshoseki (Killing Stone)
Nasu, Tochigi Prefecture, Japan
A legendary boulder said to trap the spirit of a nine-tailed fox, bringing death to those who touch it.
Sulfuric Landscape
Surrounding the Killing Stone
Witness the stark beauty of volcanic activity with steaming vents and a distinct sulfurous aroma.
Legend of Tamamo-no-Mae
Informational signs at the site
Learn the captivating folklore of the evil vixen spirit imprisoned within the stone for centuries.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Legend, Ignore the Smell
A Quick Stop with a Storied Past
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👃 Brace for the Sulfur Smell
The strong scent of hydrogen sulfide is pervasive. It's part of the experience, but can be overwhelming for some!
🚶♀️ Short & Sweet Visit
Sesshoseki is a quick stop. Allow 30-60 minutes to read the signs and take photos.
📜 Read the Legends
Informational signs explain the fascinating folklore of the nine-tailed fox.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
There's a short trail around the stone, so wear comfortable footwear.
Tips
from all over the internet
👃 Brace for the Sulfur Smell
The strong scent of hydrogen sulfide is pervasive. It's part of the experience, but can be overwhelming for some!
🚶♀️ Short & Sweet Visit
Sesshoseki is a quick stop. Allow 30-60 minutes to read the signs and take photos.
📜 Read the Legends
Informational signs explain the fascinating folklore of the nine-tailed fox.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
There's a short trail around the stone, so wear comfortable footwear.
🦊 Naruto Fan Must-See
Fans of the anime Naruto will appreciate the connection to the Kyuubi (nine-tailed fox).
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Sesshoseki an interesting historical and mythological site, especially for its unique legend and stark volcanic landscape. While the strong sulfur smell is a notable drawback for some, the free admission and proximity to other Nasu attractions make it a worthwhile quick stop for those interested in folklore and natural phenomena.
"A cool spot for a quick side trip if you’re in Nasu. There’s no entrance fee, and not a ton to see if you’re expecting something spectacular, but the stones are interesting, and the history makes it more fun. There are signs explaining the legend, which are worth reading!
You can really smell the strong onsen scent in the area. There’s also a path leading up the mountain to a temple (I think), but I didn’t go up since it was too cold. 🥶😅 Worth a visit if you’re nearby and into legends and history!"
ココ
"A nice short trail with some interesting scenery—just be prepared for the strong smell of sulphur! Worth a quick stop if you're in the area and don’t mind the scent."
Chayoot V
"The folktales are good but the smell of hydrogen sulphide is very annoying and makes you nauseous….. Furthermore if you stay there for a long time, your nose might start to feel a burning sensation"
Aadil Anas K
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sesshoseki is located in Nasu, Tochigi Prefecture. The easiest way to reach it is by car, as it's part of the Nasu Onsen area. Public transport options include taking a bus from Nasu-Shiobara Station to the Nasu Yumoto Onsen bus stop, followed by a short walk. 
Yes, you can reach the vicinity of Sesshoseki via bus to Nasu Yumoto Onsen. From there, it's a short walk to the site.
Many visitors explore Nasu by car, which offers flexibility to visit Sesshoseki and other attractions like hot springs and hiking trails.
Yes, Sesshoseki is located within the Nasu Onsen area, known for its hot springs, hiking trails, and temples.
While possible, it's a long day trip. It's more commonly visited as part of a longer stay in the Tochigi Prefecture or as a stop on a road trip.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Sesshoseki is a free attraction. You can visit the site without purchasing any tickets.
Sesshoseki is an outdoor natural site and is generally accessible at all times. However, it's best visited during daylight hours for safety and visibility.
No advance booking is required as there is no entrance fee. You can visit spontaneously.
The main restriction is not to touch the stone itself due to its legendary and natural properties. Respect the signage and the environment.
Yes, it can be visited year-round. Winter visits offer a unique snowy landscape, as seen in some reels.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main sight is the large, cracked boulder itself, surrounded by a landscape marked by volcanic activity and sulfurous vents. Informational signs detail the legend.
The area has a strong smell of sulfur due to the nearby volcanic hot springs. This is a prominent feature of the site.
Yes, there is a short, well-maintained path that allows visitors to walk around the stone and observe the surrounding sulfuric landscape.
While there are no major facilities directly at the stone, the surrounding Nasu Yumoto Onsen area offers amenities like restrooms and foot baths. Some reviews mention free foot hot spas nearby.
The main path around the stone is generally flat and accessible, but the surrounding terrain can be uneven. Visitors with mobility concerns should exercise caution.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the stark beauty of the cracked stone against the volcanic landscape. The steam vents and surrounding nature also make for interesting shots.
Yes, photography is allowed. However, remember not to touch the stone itself.
Many visitors capture the stone with the steaming vents in the background, or frame it with the surrounding natural scenery.
Daylight hours are best for clear photos. Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and fewer crowds.
Drone usage is generally restricted in natural parks and sensitive areas. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider framing it as a real-life fairy tale or a visit to a place from a storybook. The nearby Nasu Yumoto Onsen area also offers family-friendly hot springs and other attractions, making Sesshoseki a good, brief addition to a day of exploration in the region.
👻 Paranormal & Folklore Enthusiasts
Take your time to read the informational signs that detail the myth. The stark, volcanic landscape adds to the eerie atmosphere, making it a prime spot for those who enjoy exploring places with a dark or mysterious past.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
Combine your visit with other Nasu attractions like the Nasu Highland Park or the numerous onsen (hot spring) resorts. It's a perfect spot for a brief exploration and a unique photo opportunity before continuing your journey.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of Sesshoseki: A Tale of Vengeance
Legend dictates that anyone who comes into contact with the stone will be killed, or that the poisonous gases emanating from it are a manifestation of the trapped spirit's malevolence. This belief has led to the stone being a site of both fear and fascination for centuries. The recent cracking of the stone in 2022 reignited these superstitions, with many online expressing concern that the demon has been freed.
While the scientific explanation points to natural geological processes and the release of volcanic gases, the enduring power of the myth continues to draw visitors who are intrigued by Japan's rich folklore and the darker side of its mythology.
Geological Marvel: The Sulfuric Landscape
The cracking of the stone itself is attributed to natural geological processes, likely exacerbated by the corrosive volcanic gases and the natural weathering of the rock over time. The area is a testament to the powerful forces at play beneath the earth's surface, creating a stark and somewhat eerie environment that complements the legends associated with the stone.
Visitors can observe these geological features firsthand, with steam rising from the ground and the unique mineral deposits that color the landscape. It's a reminder that while folklore adds a layer of mystique, the natural world also plays a significant role in shaping this intriguing location.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit