Shomyoji Temple

Japanese name： 称名寺

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Main Image Wooden Standing Amida Nyorai (Kuro Honzon) Category Nyorai (Tathagata)

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Description

Shomyoji Temple on Mt. Asahi in Watari Town preserves a wooden standing Amida Nyorai as its principal image. The roughly 94 cm statue is made of joined hinoki cypress with crystal eyes and dates to the Kamakura period. Its balanced body, carefully shaped brows and eyes, and flowing robe folds show the influence of Kaikei’s style. The gold pigment on the surface darkened over the centuries, giving rise to the affectionate name “Kuro Honzon,” or Black Principal Image. It was originally the principal image of Komyoin, associated with the Watari clan, and is traditionally said to have been presented to Chiba Tsunetane by Minamoto no Yoritomo. The image remained in the area after the Watari clan moved to Wakuya and later became Shomyoji’s principal image. A Tangible Cultural Property of Miyagi Prefecture, it is unveiled twice a year on January 16 and August 13.

Basic Information

Spot ID 2212

Temple / Site Shomyoji Temple

Visiting Area Main Hall

Visiting Status Normally closed to the public (opened every January 16 and August 13)

Address 宮城県亘理郡亘理町字旭山1

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