Kintōzan Eikurōji Tachimuki Kannon Hall

【A giant statue embodying compassion】 The thousand-year prayer and miracle of wood carved by "Kintōzan Eiryuji"

Standing in Aizubashimachi, west of the Aizu Basin, is "Kintōzan Eiryuji." At its center, the Kannon Hall breathes life into a majestic form of prayer that overwhelms those who see it. For over 1200 years since its founding, its presence has watched over this land, truly a "miracle of wood" born from the deep faith of Aizu and the dedication of craftsmen.

■ Carved while rooted, one of Japan's largest dignities

The principal image, the "Wooden Thousand-Armed Kannon Statue," stands approximately 8.5 meters tall. It boasts one of the largest sizes in Japan as a statue carved from a single tree.

• Legend of Kukai: It is said that Kobo Daishi (Kukai) carved it directly from a giant tree while it was still rooted, and it has long been affectionately known as the "Standing Tree Kannon."
• Impressive guardian deity: Inside the hall, the principal image is surrounded by the Twenty-Eight Guardian Deities, along with statues of the Wind God and Thunder God. The powerful presence of the thirty-three statues illuminated in the darkness is truly breathtaking.

■ 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 and entrusted their heartfelt wishes.

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

In the precincts where the scenery of old Japan remains, take a moment to touch the overwhelming compassion emanating from a single tree. Would you like to feel the thousand-year prayer blending into the air of Aizu?