Saimyoji Temple
Main Image Wooden Seated Enma King and Two Attendant Figures (Laughing Enma) Category Other
Impression TagsWarmthDignityDepth
DescriptionEnma Hall at Saimyoji Temple enshrines a wooden seated Enma King with two attendant figures. Created in 1633 in the early Edo period, the group is described by Mashiko Town as displaying bold yet refined carving, facial expressions that convey the character of each figure, and flowing drapery lines. The unusually large Enma King is especially distinctive and, because of an expression unlike the conventional stern image of Enma, is affectionately known locally as the “Laughing Enma.” The group was designated a Tangible Cultural Property of Tochigi Prefecture in 1975. The temple grounds are open year-round and freely accessible, and the front lattice doors of Enma Hall are opened at set times from the 15th to the 17th of each month.
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