Keiryuuji Tachiki Kannon Hall

【A giant statue of compassion residing in a single tree】 The thousand-year prayer carved by 'Eikyuji's Rokkakudo'

Standing in Aizusakushita Town, west of the Aizu Basin, is 'Eikyuji'. At its center stands the Rokkakudo, where a majestic form of prayer that overwhelms the viewer is alive. For over 1200 years since its founding, its presence has watched over this land, truly a 'miracle of wood' born from Aizu's deep faith and the dedication of craftsmen.

■ Carved from a single tree, rooted and full of life

The main deity, the 'Eleven-faced Kannon Bodhisattva statue', stands about 8.5 meters tall. Remarkably, it is said to have been carved from a massive Zelkova tree that remains rooted in the earth.

• Overwhelming presence: The figure rising throughout the hall beautifully merges the life force inherent in the wood with the compassion of Kannon.
• National designated treasure: It is also designated as an important cultural property of the country, exuding a dignified tension in the silence alongside the twenty-eight guardian deities.

■ A 'hugging pillar' that heals people across ages

The large pillar in the corridor of the Kannon hall is known as the 'hugging pillar', where many worshippers once clung to it, entrusting their heartfelt wishes.

• Inherited faith: The pillar, which shines black from many hands touching it, is imbued with the earnest wishes and memories of gratitude from generations of people.

A moment to touch the overwhelming compassion emanating from a single tree in a precinct that retains the scenes of old Japan. Would you like to feel the thousand-year prayer blending into the air of Aizu?