Kintōzan Eikurō-ji R立木観音堂

【A giant statue of compassion residing in a single tree】 The thousand-year prayer and miracle of wood carved by 'Kintozan Eikyuji'

Standing in Aizubanshita Town, west of the Aizu Basin, 'Kintozan Eikyuji' is home to a Kannon Hall where a majestic form of prayer that overwhelms viewers breathes life. 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.'

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

The main deity, the 'Wooden Thousand-Hand Kannon Statue,' stands at approximately 8.5 meters tall. It boasts one of the largest sizes in Japan as a single wood carving (a statue carved from a single piece of wood).

• 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 cherished by the name 'Standing Tree Kannon.'
• Impressive guardian deity: Inside the hall, twenty-eight guardian deities surround the main deity, along with statues of the Wind God and Thunder God. The powerful presence of the thirty-three statues emerging from 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 to it, entrusting their heartfelt wishes.

• Inherited faith: The pillar, which has become glossy from many hands touching it, absorbs the earnest wishes and memories of gratitude from generations of people.

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