Fumonzan Koanji (Nakata Kannon)

【Mother's Prayer, Eleven-faced Mercy】 The tranquility that calls forth miracles at 'Nakata Kannon (Kōan-ji)'

In the rural landscape of Aizumisato Town stands the dignified 'Nakata Kannon'. Known as the 30th temple of the Aizu Thirty-three Kannon, this ancient temple has long been cherished as the 'Embracing Kannon', gently receiving the earnest wishes of the people. This is also the 'Holy Land of a Mother's Love', where Shika, the mother of the world-renowned bacteriologist Hideyo Noguchi, fervently prayed while thinking of her distant child.

■ The Beautiful 'Eleven-faced Kannon' Carved from Stone

The principal statue of the Eleven-faced Great Kannon Bodhisattva is a wooden masterpiece believed to have been created during the Kamakura period.

• Miraculous Triad: In addition to the central Kannon statue, the figures of Fudo Myo-o and Jizo Bosatsu stand as attendants, designated as an Important Cultural Property of the country. Their noble yet compassionate expressions remove the confusion from the heart just by gazing upon them, providing quiet courage.
• Faith in the Embracing Pillar: The 'Embracing Kannon' allows visitors to touch the pillar supporting the Kannon Hall and directly entrust their wishes. The warmth of the wood felt through the palms embodies the weight of prayers that have been passed down through a thousand years.

■ A Mother's 'Single-minded Wish' Resonating Through Time

Walking through the precincts, one can touch the ema (votive tablets) dedicated by Shika praying for Hideyo's success, and fragments of the history walked by parent and child.

• Inheritance of Prayer: The strength of a mother who wished solely for her child's safety amidst poverty and adversity. That single-minded wish still blends into the pure air of the precincts, warmly enveloping the hearts of visiting travelers.

The gaze of Kannon, marking the passage of eternal time, and the unchanging love offered by a mother. As you think of your loved ones, why not find your own 'peace of mind' at the end of the path you tread step by step?