Left Downward Kannon

【A corridor of prayer blooming on the cliffs】 Encounter the serene aerial palace at 'Left Descending Kannon'

In the mountains of Aizumisato Town, a scene that will make you doubt your eyes unfolds. Built against a massive rock face, the three-tiered structure known as 'Kakezukuri' — this is the 21st temple of the Aizu Thirty-three Kannon, 'Left Descending Kannon'. Said to have been founded by the great monk Kobo Daishi Kukai during the Heian period, this place is truly worthy of being called a 'heavenly sanctuary', where the harshness of nature and human prayers blend together.

■ The aesthetics of 'Kakezukuri' embracing the giant rock

This architecture, reminiscent of 'Kiyomizu-dera', skillfully utilizes the protruding bedrock and is constructed with a framework of pillars.

• Coexistence with nature: Upon entering the hall, the natural rock surface soaring through the floor is exposed, allowing you to feel the seamless coexistence of artificial structures and the great outdoors.
• A corridor crossing the sky: Standing at the edge of the stage, a refreshing breeze sweeps through the Aizu basin, and below you lies a panoramic view of the forest that changes colors with the seasons.

■ Prayers to the Kannon statue that mark the passage of time

The Kannon statue enshrined in the cave has long been revered as a guardian deity that alleviates the suffering of local people and imparts wisdom.

• A tranquil arrival on foot: After about fifteen minutes of walking along the lush approach from the parking lot, enveloped only by the sounds of birds chirping and the river, the moment you arrive, the massive palace that appears before you brings deep emotion and tranquility to the traveler’s heart.

For over a thousand years, a compassionate gaze has watched over Aizu from the cliff's edge. Why not ascend to the stage of the Left Descending Kannon and surrender yourself to its overwhelming beauty and the serene time that purifies the soul?