Kai Zenkoji Temple

Japanese name： 甲斐善光寺
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Main Image Wooden Seated Minamoto no Sanetomo Category Other

Impression Tags

NobilityRefinementDepth

Description

Displayed in the Treasure Museum of Kai Zenkoji Temple, this wooden seated portrait represents Minamoto no Sanetomo, the third shogun of the Kamakura shogunate. The figure measures 76.0 cm high. Dendrochronological analysis during conservation work identified the newest tree ring as dating to 1222, indicating that the statue was made not long after Sanetomo's death in 1219 and making it the oldest known sculptural portrait of him in Japan. Its vivid, realistic facial features make it an important example of early Kamakura portrait sculpture. In March 2026, the Council for Cultural Affairs recommended that it and the temple's portrait of Minamoto no Yoritomo be designated together as an Important Cultural Property of Japan.

Basic Information

Spot ID 5235
Temple / Site Kai Zenkoji Temple
Visiting Area Treasure Museum
Visiting Status Regularly on display (Treasure Museum / 9:00–16:30)
Address 山梨県甲府市善光寺3-36-1

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Other Buddhist images at this spot

Wooden Amida Nyorai and Two Attendants (Amida Triad) Treasure Museum View details Gilt-bronze Standing Amida Nyorai and Two Attendants (Zenkoji Nyorai) Shrine Cabinet in the Kondo Hall View details Wooden Seated Minamoto no Yoritomo Treasure Museum View details

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