Is it possible to find a statue that resembles you? This is Hoonji Temple. It is a Soto Zen Buddhist temple. Hoonji Temple has a long history. It was built in 1394. The highlight is the 500 Buddhist disciples. They are called rakan.
These 500 rakan came from different places. They gathered after Buddha’s death. The statues show realistic expressions. They make them lifelike.
Hoonji Temple is known for its rakan statues. They were carved from 1731 to 1734. Nine artisans from Kyoto created them. There were originally 500 statues. Today, only 499 remain.
The Rakan-do hall is on the left. It is to the left of the main hall. The 500 rakan of Hoonji Temple were made in Kyoto. It took four years. They used lacquered wood. It was a yoseki-zukuri technique. This is a joined-block technique. It is rare to have so many wood carvings. Morioka City has designated them as a Tangible Cultural Property.
The statues wear clothing like monks from India, the West, and China. They have rich international features. Some are said to be Marco Polo and Kublai Khan.
Some statues seem to be dozing. Others seem to be chatting. Still others have blank expressions. All of them are lifelike. They are humorous. It seems like you can almost hear them talking.
Hoonji Temple was moved to its current location in 1601. The main hall houses Shaka Nyorai. This is the historical Buddha. The Rakando Hall is the oldest building. It dates back to 1858.
In the hall’s center stands Vairocana Buddha. He is surrounded by Buddha’s ten great disciples. The rakan statues are placed along the walls.
Hoonji Temple was a Zen training temple. It was for monks. It was a family temple. It was for 1000 families. It is a place of Zen meditation for the public.
Hoonji Temple is located along Teramachidori Ave. This is one of Japan’s 100 Best Roadscapes. The wooden Sanmon Gate greets visitors.
The Rakan-do hall contains the 499 rakan statues. It also has a statue of the seated Vairocana Buddha. Some statues resemble historical figures. People say they look like Marco Polo. They also look like the grandchild of Genghis Khan.
Why not see if you can find a rakan statue? Find one that looks like you. Or find one that looks like someone you know. Hoonji Temple and its rakan await. The cost is 300 yen for adults. It is 100 yen for children. Viewing is available from 9 am to 4 pm.