​Hokyointo

In the past, it was possible to confirm the tower's location even from a distance, so ships going in and out of the Kumano River mouth were kept safe by confirming the tower's location.
Also, when the condition of the river mouth deteriorates and it becomes difficult for boats to enter and exit, a festival is held at Hoko-sama, and after sutra readings, stones with sutras written on them are thrown into the river mouth, and eventually the river mouth is opened and navigation is possible. It is reported that this has become the case.