Kintōzan Eikurōji Tachimuki Kannon Hall

[A giant statue embodying compassion, carved over a thousand years of prayer at Kintozan Eiryuji]

Standing in Aizubashita, west of the Aizu Basin, is "Kintozan Eiryuji." At its center, the Kannon Hall houses a majestic form of prayer that overwhelms all who see it. For over 1200 years since its founding, this figure has watched over the land, truly a "miracle of wood" born from the deep faith of Aizu and the dedication of craftsmen.

■ One of Japan's largest, carved while still rooted

The main deity, the "Wooden Thousand-Armed Kannon Statue," stands at approximately 8.5 meters tall, boasting one of the largest sizes in Japan as a one-piece carving (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, surrounding the main deity are 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 generations

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, absorbs the earnest wishes and memories of gratitude from generations of people.

In the precincts where the scenes of old Japan remain, take a moment to experience the overwhelming compassion emanating from a single tree. Would you like to feel the thousand years of prayer blending into the air of Aizu?