Toyo-zan Saihoji Temple

Japanese name： 東陽山西方寺

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Main Image Pair of Agyo and Ungyo Kongo Rikishi (Wooden Guardian Kings) Category Tenbu (Deva)

Impression Tags

PowerDignitySolemnity

Description

At Saihoji, a Soto Zen temple in central Sasebo, two imposing Kongo Rikishi guardian figures stand facing one another at the entrance gate. The pair was carved from single pieces of wood in Fujian Province, China, and stands in the Nio Gate completed in 2001. The temple explains that the open-mouthed Agyo represents birth and the closed-mouthed Ungyo death, and encourages visitors to view the guardians of the gate. The Main Hall is modeled on the Great Temple at Bodh Gaya in India and enshrines Shaka Nyorai as its principal Buddha. The temple publishes regular visiting hours, allowing the guardian figures to be seen up close.

Basic Information

Spot ID 10216

Temple / Site Toyo-zan Saihoji Temple

Visiting Area Sanmon Gate (Nio Gate)

Visiting Status Normally open for viewing (summer 8:30–17:00, winter 8:30–16:30; until 17:00 over the New Year holidays)

Address 長崎県佐世保市八幡町5-13

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