Yakuoji Temple
Main Image Wooden Kongo Rikishi Guardians (Agyo and Ungyo) Category Tenbu (Deva)
Impression TagsPowerDignityTense Presence
DescriptionAt the Niomon Gate of Yakuoji, Temple No. 23 on the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage, stand a pair of wooden Kongo Rikishi guardians, Agyo and Ungyo. Carved in 1836 by Buddhist sculptors Shiogama Koun and Yasunobu, they are approximately 230 centimeters tall and made from joined Japanese cypress wood. Their fierce faces and dynamic bodies convey great strength. Restored in 2000, they were designated cultural properties by the former Hiwasa Town in 2001 and are now Tangible Cultural Properties designated by Minami Town. The gate was built in 1835 and dismantled for repairs in 2012. Beyond it rise the 33 steps of the women's misfortune-warding slope and the 42 steps of the men's slope, where worshippers traditionally place small offerings on each step to pray for protection. The guardian statues can be viewed on either side of the gate.
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