On a modest street corner of Shiroishi lies the curious little object that gave the city in northern Japan its name. A small white rock (shiro ishi in Japanese) quietly gathers moss as most residents and tourists pass it by. Far more than just a geological landmark, this rock has a reputation for its magical properties.

The rock measures about 1.5 meters in diameter and is composed of a grayish tuff. In feudal times, it was regarded as Shinseki, or the “god stone.” It is said to have a very deep “root,” which extends all the way to its partner rock in Sendai. Just as this stone is connected to its partner, Shinseki promises to connect people to theirs. Legend has it that if one prays for a good life partner at this spot, that wish will come true. Unfortunately, no information is available on how swiftly these requests will be fulfilled.