Kintōzan Eikurō-ji, Tachiki Kannon Hall

【A giant statue of compassion dwelling in a single tree】 The thousand-year prayer and miracle of wood carved by 'Kintōzan Eiryuji'

'Kintōzan Eiryuji' stands in Aizusakashita Town, west of the Aizu Basin. At its center, the Kannon Hall houses 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, embodying the deep faith of Aizu and the dedication of craftsmen, truly a 'miracle of wood.'

■ One of Japan's largest, carved while rooted

The main deity, 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 'Standing Tree Kannon.'
• Impressive guardian deity: Inside the hall, twenty-eight guardian deities surround the main deity, along with statues of the wind and thunder gods. The powerful presence of the thirty-three statues illuminated in the darkness is truly breathtaking.

■ A 'hugging pillar' that heals people across eras

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, polished 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 that retain the scenery of old Japan, experience a moment of overwhelming compassion emanating from a single tree. Would you like to feel the thousand-year prayer that blends into the air of Aizu?