Kannō-ji, Buddhist temple on Mount Kabutoyama in Nishinomiya, Japan
Kannō-ji is a Buddhist temple on Mount Kabutoyama in Nishinomiya, Hyōgo Prefecture, set in a forested area halfway up the slope. The main hall houses several wooden statues that date from different centuries and depict religious figures.
The fourth consort of Emperor Junna founded the temple in 828 after fleeing the imperial palace in Kyoto. Records from the 14th century document this origin and confirm the early history of the site.
Four wooden Buddha figures from the Heian period are classified as national cultural properties here, including representations of Nyoirin-Kannon and Hijiri-Kannon. These sculptures are kept in the main hall, where visitors can view them during certain opening hours.
The path up goes through forest and requires some fitness, sturdy footwear is helpful. Ceremonies take place throughout the year, visitors are welcome both during religious events and outside them.
One of the three most important Nyoirin representations in Japan is kept here, created by Buddhist master Kūkai in 830. This statue is among the earliest works attributed to him and attracts specialists from across the country.
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