Gachirinji Temple
Main Image Standing Sho Kannon Bosatsu Category Bosatsu (Bodhisattva)
Impression TagsGentlenessNobilityStillness
DescriptionA wooden standing Sho Kannon Bosatsu, believed to date to the 12th century in the late Heian period, is enshrined in Gachirinji's Yakushido Hall. It measures 167.5 cm high and is a Yamaguchi Prefecture-designated Tangible Cultural Property. Carved primarily from a single cypress block, with additional joined sections for the front, back, arms and legs, the statue has a full face and broad shoulders. It was once covered in gold leaf, now lost. Part of the left hand is missing, while the right hand and the front portions of both feet are later replacements. The Yakushido building is itself a nationally designated Important Cultural Property, traditionally rebuilt in 1189 by Chogen with support from Fujiwara no Kanezane. Unlike the hidden principal Yakushi Nyorai kept in a shrine cabinet, this Kannon stands in the hall; however, visitors must confirm arrangements for viewing the interior in advance.
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