It is said that the small dents on this stone are the footprints of a god. Just what is the story behind this?

There are various legends – it is said when the Shinto gods Okuninushi and Sukunabikona no Mikoto visited this land, the latter god suddenly fell ill. Okuninushi quickly traversed the bottom of the ocean, and drew the waters from Beppu Onsen all the way from Oita to this land. Placing the small Sukunabikona no Mikoto in his palm, he placed him in the water, and he immediately recovered. Overcome with joy, Sukunabikona no Mikoto danced upon a rock beside him. This is the stone that has come to be known as “Tama no Ishi,” and if you pour water on the stone while making a wish, it is said that the gods will hear your prayers. This extraordinary custom persists to this day.