By the way, do you know how this region got the name “Todoroki”?

One theory suggests it evolved from Totoro Castle, which existed in Setagaya long ago. It was ruled by Lord Kirashi during the Muromachi Shogunate. The area was strategic, and it’s said that he piously prayed at Mangan-ji for victory in times of war. The kanji character for “Castle” also reads as “ki,” so the locals referred to the castle as “Totoroki,” which eventually became “Todoroki.”

Another explanation may be in the roaring of the waterfall.

Recall the story of how Todoroki Fudōson began. Led by a dream, the great Kakuban traveled here from Nara, carrying a statue of Fudō Myōō to a site that matched said dream. Then he pierced the earth with his staff, sending water gushing from the rocks. The waterfall made a roaring sound – “todoroku” in Japanese” – and thus began Todoroki Fudōson.

Listen to this sound. If you let it, it will wash away your niggling doubts in a current of clarity.

Standing near a waterfall allows one to be still with oneself. Feel the roaring waters as you take in the sight. Perhaps a hint of light will shine through the noise within.