Yoshitsune Minamoto distinguished himself by defeating the Heike clan in the Battle of Dannoura in 1185. Soon after that, however, he became a hunted fugitive, trying to escape the murderous jealousy of his elder brother, Yoritomo. He and his faithful right-hand man Benkei disguised themselves as itinerant priests. When they arrived at the barrier station of Ataka, thanks to the quick wit of Benkei, they managed to fool Yoritomo's agent Togashi, who interrogated them thoroughly. Komatsu is famous as the setting of the Noh theatrical and song "Ataka", the kabuki drama "Kanjincho". This drama especially appeals to the hearts of the Japanese, who sympathize with the unlucky heroes so much that they have coined the term hangan-biiki ("sympathy for the weak").
Thanks to : Planning Section of Komatsu City Office, Ishikawa Prefectural Office in Tokyo
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