Tucked away in the lush, verdant hills of the Arashiyama district, the Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple offers a unique glimpse into Japan's spiritual and artistic heritage. Originally founded in 766 by Empress Shōtoku, the temple has endured numerous reconstructions, with its current iteration dating back to the 1980s.
Otagi Nenbutsu-ji
What sets Otagi Nenbutsu-ji apart is its collection of over 1,200 rakan statues, each carved by devoted worshippers under the guidance of the renowned sculptor and then head monk Kocho Nishimura. These whimsical and expressive statues infuse the temple grounds with a lively and captivating atmosphere.
rakan statues at Otagi Nenbutsu-ji
rakan statues at Otagi Nenbutsu-ji
rakan statues at Otagi Nenbutsu-ji
rakan statues at Otagi Nenbutsu-ji
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