Case file · Folklore / legend
Emperor Sutoku's spirit brought home
In 1868, days before his enthronement, Emperor Meiji sent envoys to Shikoku to bring the spirit of Emperor Sutoku, who had died in exile in 1164, back to Kyoto at the new Shiramine shrine.
1868 CE · 35.03, 135.76 · status: official
The account
Legend says Sutoku wrote sutras in his own blood and swore to become a great demon to curse the imperial house; he was blamed for the rise of the warrior class. Meiji's gesture aimed to end the curse as imperial rule returned.