Koshoji Temple
Main Image Stone Reclining Shaka Nyorai (Nehan Buddha) Category Nyorai (Tathagata)
Impression TagsPeacefulnessSolemnityStillness
DescriptionA monumental stone reclining Shakyamuni Buddha stands before the main gate of Koshoji, a Soto Zen temple north of Uchiko's historic townscape. Carved from white granite, it measures approximately 10 m long, 3 m high and weighs about 200 tonnes. It depicts Shakyamuni lying on his right side at the time of his passing into nirvana. Symbols known as Buddha's footprints are carved on the soles, and visitors can see the face and folds of the robes at close range. The statue was installed on November 1, 1998; neither its sculptor nor any cultural-property designation for the statue itself has been confirmed. The temple traces its origins to 1441, and its buildings are designated Tangible Cultural Properties by Uchiko Town. The reclining Buddha can be viewed free of charge from the grounds. The annual Nehan Festival, long held on March 15, will move to the second Sunday in March from 2027, according to the Uchiko Tourism Association.
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