As you walk along the key bend road, a field opens up in front of you. At the end of a shrine path is Chōkokuji, the temple of the Sanada Family. The family crest consists of Rokumonsen or six coins and a pair of orcas. The crest is hung on the roof of the main hall and apparently, one of the orcas was transferred here from Matsushiro Castle.
Legend says the origin of Rokumonsen derives from a military commander, who asked for forgiveness after the murders he had to commit which went against the Buddhist teachings. Since six coins were a fare to cross the Sanzu River into the afterlife, it symbolized a brave heart, unafraid of death.
Behind Chōkokuji, there is a graveyard of several generations of feudal lords, including Nobuyuki. There is also a mausoleum dedicated to the feudal lords that one can visit for a fee with a reservation. The souls of the Sanada Family members who ruled Matsushiro are all resting here.
