“Throwing stones summons thunderstorms” — the Dragon Stone of Uozu harbors the grudge of a mighty dragon

▲ The Dragon Stone, approximately 2 meters long and 1 meter high. (Photo / Reporter Chen Ruizhong)

Reporter Chen Ruizhong / Report from Uozu

When rain has been absent for too long, many places hold rain-prayer rituals, hoping that divine power will bring rainfall to relieve the land’s drought. In Uozu, Japan, there is a “Dragon Stone” about 2 meters long. Legend has it that throwing stones at it will prompt the sky to pour down rain.

Located on the riverbed of Minamimagatani in the upper reaches of the Katakai River, the Dragon Stone is about 2 meters long and 1 meter high — a massive white granite rock. Within the stone runs a dark band about 20 centimeters wide, twisting and coiling like a giant dragon embedded in the rock, making it truly unique.

▲ The black dragon coiled around the white granite

Legend has it that in ancient times, a gigantic dragon dwelled on a rock in Uozu, exuding a thick, eerie aura. To vanquish the demon, the hunter Sanda engaged the dragon in battle and ultimately killed the evil beast with bullets made of gold and silver. The dragon’s resentment then merged with lightning and became part of the stone, forming this peculiar “Dragon Stone.”

In addition, locals reveal that the unceasing river beside the Dragon Stone represents the lingering grudge of the dragon. When someone throws a stone at it, the dragon is said to unleash thunderstorms. Since the Katakai River is a vital source of water for local power generation and agriculture, a shrine called the Ryuseki Shrine (Dragon Stone Shrine) is also located nearby, dedicated to the dragon god in hopes of ensuring smooth weather and abundant water for the river.

▲ The Ryuseki Shrine (Dragon Stone Shrine)

Although the legend is filled with dark elements like dragons and resentment, actually visiting the Dragon Stone reveals a scenic area with clear, sweet streams. Rather than sensing any evil aura, visitors are met with a refreshing and pleasant feeling. Downstream along the Katakai River, many families can be seen happily camping and having picnics. Of course, to ensure their day goes smoothly, no one dares to throw stones at the Dragon Stone — and indeed, the weather remains sunny all day. Perhaps there really is some mystical power of the dragon god at work.