Wooden statue of Nyoirin Kanzeon Bodhisattva in half-legged position (City-designated important tangible cultural property)

According to legend, Enmyoji Temple was founded by Kobo Daishi, who had chosen the location by divination, and it is said that it was once the largest temple in the western part of Japan. However, today, the temple has only a hall, a bell tower, and a pagoda in its small precincts. The principal image of the temple, Nyoirin Kannon Bodhisattva, enshrined in the hall, is thought to have been made between the end of the Muromachi period and the Momoyama period. It is in good condition, and the surface of the robe still has beautiful patterns of hemp leaves and treasures drawn in thin gold lines. The statue has a gentle face, and is wearing a glittering jeweled crown and chest ornament, giving it an overall gorgeous impression. Nyoirin Kannon is one of the transformation Kannon. It is usually depicted as having six arms, sitting in the rinnoza position with the right knee raised, or as if lost in thought with a hand lightly placed on the cheek. The Kannon statue at Enmyoji Temple is also depicted in this typical form. The "nyoi" in Nyoirin refers to the wish-granting jewel (hoju), which is said to grant one's wishes when held, and the "rin" refers to the weapon called the Dharma wheel (horin) that destroys worldly desires. Nyoirin Kannon, who holds these, was likely worshipped as a Buddha who grants people's wishes and relieves them of suffering. Designated date: August 12, 1985 Summary: Inlay wood, lacquer leaf, statue height 56cm, knee-length 37cm