"A statue of Benkei in front of Kii-Tanabe Station in Wakayama Prefecture.

Benkei was born in Kii-Tanabe, went to train on Mount Hiei, and became the current Musashibo Benkei when he came down the mountain.

The statue stands in an enclosed square in front of the station.

Incidentally, there is also a stone monument to Ueshiba Morihei, the founder of Aikido, nearby.

It seems that this place has produced many famous people."

森下寿

"It stands in the rotary in front of JR Kii-Tanabe Station.
Of course, I knew the name Benkei, but I didn't know where he was born, and I hadn't even thought about it.

I happened to come to Tanabe for work and passed by when I discovered it.

However, I had seen a sign with what looked like a Benkei character illustration at an intersection just after exiting the highway interchange, and I wondered what it was. lol

It's a shame that it's not well known,
but maybe there aren't many historical sites that can be used for tourism.

This may be a common issue."

金子利昭

"In front of JR Kii-Tanabe Station in Tanabe City, Wakayama Prefecture, stands a bronze statue of Musashi Benkei. This statue, standing with a naginata (halberd), has become the city's symbol.
(Was Musashi Benkei a man of great strength?)
In fact, Musashi Benkei is said to have possessed considerable strength. He was a master of the naginata (halberd), and is portrayed as a hero in many legends and stories. He is particularly known for his service to Minamoto no Yoshitsune, where he is said to have excelled with both his wisdom and strength.
⦿ Legend of Superhuman Strength
One anecdote tells us that Benkei met Minamoto no Yoshitsune (Ushiwakamaru) at Gojo Bridge in Kyoto, and initially attempted to attack him, but was defeated and became his retainer. This anecdote also hints at his incredible strength.
⦿ Master Naginata
Benkei was known as a master of the naginata (halberd), and his beloved sword, "Iwatogi," is said to have been sharp enough to cut through boulders.
⦿ Symbol of loyalty
As a retainer of Minamoto no Yoshitsune, Benkei saved Yoshitsune from numerous crises, protecting him at Koromogawa in Oshu, and dying standing still. His death, known as "Benkei's Standing," is passed down as a symbol of loyalty."

田村徹