Kotaiji Temple
Main Image Pair of Kongo Rikishi Guardian Figures Category Tenbu (Deva)
Impression TagsPowerDignityRefinement
DescriptionA pair of Agyo and Ungyo Kongo Rikishi guardians was traditionally enshrined on either side of the Nio Gate, the middle gate of Kotaiji, a Soto Zen temple. The gate is said to date to 1680 and, despite successive repairs, retains its historic appearance. It is a two-story gate with an upper room and corridors connecting at the rear on both sides. The entrance gate, Nio Gate and Great Buddha Hall were designated Tangible Cultural Properties of Nagasaki Prefecture in 2009. As part of conservation work, the guardian statues were temporarily removed in September 2024. Completion of the gate repairs is targeted for December 21, 2026, so visitors should ask the temple about opportunities to view the statues. The statues' own dates of creation and cultural-property status have not been confirmed.
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