Kirihataji Temple
Main Image Hatakiri Kannon Statue Category Bosatsu (Bodhisattva)
Impression TagsWarmthGentlenessMystery
DescriptionOn the grounds of Kirihataji, Temple No. 10 of the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage, stands a bronze statue depicting a weaving girl who, according to temple legend, transformed into Thousand-Armed Kannon. Unusually for a Kannon image, the statue holds scissors in its right hand and a length of cloth in its left, hence the name Hatakiri Kannon. The legend tells how the girl generously cut off a piece of the cloth she was weaving to give to Kobo Daishi on his travels. Impressed by her kindness, he initiated her into Buddhist practice, after which she attained Buddhahood in her present body. Visitors can see the statue outdoors beyond the main and Daishi halls. The grounds also contain a pagoda built by Toyotomi Hideyori and later relocated here, designated an Important Cultural Property of Japan.
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