Kanzeonji Treasure House: Spectacular Buddhist artwork 観世音寺宝蔵－目の前にある壮観な仏教美術品

Official explanation

The Treasure House at Kanzeonji Temple houses a rare and valuable collection of Buddhist statues. From towering images to tiny bodhisattva figures, visitors can admire the intricate detail and powerful artistry of these statues at close quarters.

In Japan, viewing culturally important imagery in close proximity and without display cases is rare. Statues at temples and shrines can often only be viewed from a distance. Some artworks are displayed very seldom, or sometimes not at all. At the Kanzeonji Treasure House, you can stand directly in front of these designated Important Cultural Properties to enjoy their fine craftsmanship in every detail.

Read the full explanation

The 16 statues range in size from the delicate Juichimen Kannon Bodhisattva, to a massive image of the sword-wielding Fukukensaku Kannon, that towers more than 5 meters high. Other highlights include a depiction of the fearsome Four Heavenly Kings (Shitenno)—the Buddhist guardians of the four directions.

English descriptions of each work offer you a deeper understanding of the role each Buddhist deity plays, as well as highlighting points of interest about the carvings and ornamentation. Kanzeonji Temple was the leading Buddhist temple in Kyushu in its heyday. The once sprawling complex housed numerous buildings and handsome pagodas. Today, none of the original buildings remain, but the quiet, verdant grounds, beautiful buildings, and dramatic Treasure House make the temple a popular attraction.

出典: 地域観光資源の多言語解説文データベース（観光庁） — www.mlit.go.jp/tagengo-db. この英語解説文は観光庁の地域観光資源の多言語解説整備支援事業で作成しました。
Source: Japan Tourism Agency, Multilingual Explanation Database. This English text was produced by the Japan Tourism Agency's multilingual explanation project and is shown unedited. Opening hours and services may have changed since it was written.