Koyasan Sanboin Ganjōji

【Aizu Great Buddha and the Path of Prayer】The ancient temple 'Koyama Sanboin Ganjōji' protected by successive feudal lords

In the 3rd year of the Karyaku era (1227), the temple was founded by the high disciple of Honen, Ryukan Rishi, with the lord, Sahara Juro Yoshiyoshi, who also served as a retainer to Minamoto no Yoritomo, as the major benefactor. After being destroyed by the Great Keicho Earthquake, it was restored with the generous support of three successive Aizu lords: Matsudaira Masayuki, Masakiyo, and Masakiyo. This temple is a famous site that embodies the deep faith and original spirit of the people of Aizu.

■ National Important Cultural Property 'Aizu Great Buddha' and the drama hidden in the halo 
The main attraction of this temple is the 'Aizu Great Buddha (Amitabha Nyorai seated statue)' which is approximately 2.4m tall and was created during the Kamakura period. It takes the form of a rare 'Sanzo' statue in the Tohoku region. A unique point of interest is the 'Boat-shaped halo' behind the Great Buddha. In the past, local young men going to war would detach small Buddha figures (Kahō) from this halo as 'amulets' and those who returned safely would come back to return them, revealing a poignant and vivid history.

■ Architectural group embodying the soul of Aizu and 'Nadeboke' 
The buildings reconstructed with significant aid from successive feudal lords should not be missed. The heavy 'Sanmon' gate, which features a mixed style of Japanese, Western, and Chinese influences, is adorned with intricate carvings of the twelve zodiac signs. Additionally, the main hall houses 'Obinzuru-sama (Nadeboke)', which is said to heal ailments when one strokes the same part of their body. Experience the deep atmosphere of compassion that has watched over the city of Aizu for centuries in the temple grounds, known as the 'Temple of Flowers', where seasonal flowers bloom beautifully.