Hoshoji Temple, Shingon-shu Buzan-ha
Main Image Saigoku Thirty-Three Kannon and Self-Portrait Statue by Mokujiki Shonin Category Other
Impression TagsGentlenessWarmthPeacefulness
DescriptionHoshoji preserves a group of Saigoku Thirty-Three Kannon carved by Mokujiki Shonin in the summer of 1804, when he was 87, from a giant ginkgo tree that stood in the temple grounds. One statue was stolen during the 1880 fire, leaving 32 Kannon figures and one self-portrait statue today. The Kannon figures average about 90 cm in height and display the deep, clear smiles characteristic of Mokujiki’s mature late-period “smiling Buddhas”; they are also exceptionally well preserved. The group was designated a Tangible Cultural Property (sculpture) of Niigata Prefecture in 1967. Advance contact with the temple is required to view the Mokujiki Hall.
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