Shohozan Kankokuji Temple (Sugatani Fudoson)
Main Image Fudo Myo-o (Head-only Principal Image) Category Myo-o (Wisdom King)
Impression TagsPowerMysteryDignity
DescriptionThe principal image of Kankokuji, widely known as Sugatani Fudoson, is an exceptionally unusual Fudo Myoo enshrined only in the form of its head. Temple tradition says that Gonen Shonin, while training on Mount Hiei, fled pressure from the Taira clan and was told by the Fudo he revered to take the image with him. Because the statue was too large to carry, he placed only its head in his pilgrim's pack and brought it to Echigo. The Niigata Prefectural Tourism Association introduces Sugatani Fudoson as one of Japan's three renowned Fudo sanctuaries and as a sacred site linked to a tradition said to have been transmitted through three countries. It has long been revered for household safety, fulfillment of wishes and especially ailments of the eyes. The head of the principal image is normally kept secret and is unveiled for about two weeks around Golden Week in Years of the Rabbit and Rooster. The temple itself is normally open for worship from 9:00 to 16:00.
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