日本のよいものを世界へ

Holding period

2023.03.22 〜 2023.07.09

Special exhibition of over 12-meter-long Yaku Gyoja picture scrolls

Hanzomon Museum is holding a special exhibition, “Art of Shugen and Esoteric Buddhism: Patriarchs and Mihotoke,” with free admission. Visitors can view Buddhist art such as picture scrolls and Buddhist paintings from the museum’s collection up close.

Highlight 1] The over 12-meter long picture scroll of Yaku Gyoja is on display.

Shugendo is a uniquely Japanese form of worship that is a collection of various beliefs, and is attributed to Enko-kaku (Enko-gyoja/Kamigata Daibosatsu) of the Asuka – Nara period (710-794). This exhibition traces the footsteps of Enko-gyoja by displaying one of the few surviving picture scrolls of Enko-gyoja depicting his story. The emaki are beautiful works of art, with gold-painted paper with flowers and grasses.

Highlight #2] Rare letter of release signed by Rigen Daishi is on display.

Seiho (Rigen Daishi), who founded Daigoji Temple, restored Omine about 200 years after Yakuokaku and became the founder of the Shingon school of Shugendo known as the Tosan school. The Toji Kaiyoshi (letter of release) on display in this exhibition is a valuable document that attests to the completion of the handing over of the duties of the Toji government. A portrait of Shoho will also be on display, allowing visitors to trace his face.

Highlight 3] Two lectures by outside speakers will be held during the exhibition period.

Lecture “Tracing the Footsteps of Shugendo in Ancient and Medieval Times: Its Teachings and Practices
May 28 (Sun.) 14:00-15:30 Makoto Nagamura (Professor Emeritus, Japan Women’s University)

■Lecture “Mountain Faith and Buddhism
June 25 (Sun.) 14:00-15:30 Dr. Masataka Suzuki (Professor Emeritus, Keio University)

Both events will be held at the venue and online (with a one-week missed event) / Free of charge / Pre-registration required

Event SummaryOutline