Statue of a Peeing Boy: A Symbol of Courage in Iya Valley
A quirky symbol of courage with panoramic views of the Iya Valley, the Peeing Boy statue offers a unique photo opportunity and cultural experience.
The Statue of a Peeing Boy, known in Japanese as Shoben Kozo (小便小僧), stands as a symbol of innocent courage overlooking the Iya Valley in Tokushima Prefecture. This unique statue commemorates a local tale of children and travelers who would test their bravery by urinating from the edge of the steep cliffs into the valley below. Erected in 1968, the statue was created by Tokushima sculptor Ryoko Kawasaki. The concept arose when the then vice governor of Tokushima sought to create a new tourist attraction, inspired by the stories of daring locals. Kawasaki even used his four-year-old son as a model for the plaster prototype. The statue is located in Nana Magari, known as the most difficult part of the Iya Kaido Highway. Today, the Peeing Boy statue offers visitors a mix of amusement and stunning views. The statue is a reminder of the valley's rugged landscape and the daring spirit of its people. The surrounding area provides a serene environment for visitors to relax and appreciate the natural beauty of the Iya Valley.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and capture the best lighting for photographs.
- Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Iya Onsen for a relaxing hot spring experience with scenic views.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as there is a short walk from the bus stop to the statue.
A brief summary to Statue of a Peeing Boy
- 松尾, Miyoshi, Matsumoto 松尾 池田町, Tokushima, 778-0165, JP
- +81120-404-344
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Getting There
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Public Transport
From JR Oboke Station, take the Shikoku Kotsu Bus bound for Kazurabashi Yumebutai. Get off at the Iya Onsen-mae bus stop, which is approximately a 40-minute ride. From there, it's about a 7-minute walk to the Statue of the Peeing Boy. Bus fare is approximately ¥800.
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Car
From Ikawa-Ikeda IC on the Tokushima Expressway, follow National Route 32 and then Prefectural Route 32 towards Iya Valley. The drive is approximately 45 minutes (24 km). Be aware that the roads in Iya Valley are narrow and winding. There is no dedicated parking at the statue.
Attractions Nearby to Statue of a Peeing Boy
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Hinoji Valley - Iya River Bend Observation Point
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Iya Valley
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Forest Adventure - Iya
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Iya Fureai Park
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Biwa Waterfall
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Vine Bridge in the Iya Valley
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Heike Yashiki Museum of Folklore
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Biwano Falls
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Kazurabashi Yumebutai
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Koboke Gorge Suspension Bridge
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Kurozo Marshland
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Koboke observation deck
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Dragon Rock
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Ōboke Gorge
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三名含礫片岩
