Soto Zen Gyoranzan Johgenji Temple
Main Image Gyoran Kanzeon Bosatsu Category Bosatsu (Bodhisattva)
Impression TagsMysteryDepthNobility
DescriptionGyoran Kanzeon Bosatsu is enshrined as the secret principal image of Johgenji Temple in Konakano, Hachinohe. According to temple tradition, a daughter born to a Japanese noble couple who fled warfare and reached Annam became a queen. Deeply moved by her steadfast devotion to Kannon, the king is said to have carved the image himself and presented it to her. The statue later crossed to Japan and, after passing through Zen master Nishiari Bokuzan, was enshrined at Johgenji. It is normally kept hidden, but the temple officially states that it is unveiled every year on November 17. Its unusual identity as Gyoran Kannon, the temple tradition of its overseas origin, and the rare chance to encounter the actual image only once a year make this one of Hachinohe's most distinctive Buddhist destinations.
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