Special Exhibition Commemorating the 1250th Anniversary of Kobo Daishi's Birth: Kukai and the Treasures of Shingon

About this event

This special exhibition brings together masterpieces that convey the history and spirituality of Shingon Buddhism, founded by Kobo Daishi Kukai. Precious temple treasures, including National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties held by the 18 head temples and affiliated temples belonging to the Association of Head Temples of Shingon Sects (Kakusankai), will be on display. Exhibits include the textbook-familiar National Treasure 'Shigisan Engi Emaki' (Legends of Mount Shigi Scroll), as well as the National Treasure 'Twelve Devas' (Juni-ten) and the Important Cultural Property 'Standing Statues of Sho Kannon Bosatsu, Bonten, and Taishakuten' related to the Goshichinichi Mishiho ritual. Secret Buddha statues usually not open to the public, such as the Important Cultural Property 'Standing Statue of Eleven-Headed Kannon Bosatsu' and the Important Cultural Property 'Seated Statue of Nyoirin Kannon Bosatsu', will also be showcased. Through themes such as Masterpieces Associated with Kukai, Essence of Esoteric Buddhist Art, The World of Esoteric Iconography, The World of the Goshichinichi Mishiho, Treasures of Shingon Sects, and Sculptures and Secret Buddhas, this exhibition allows visitors to experience the history and spread of Kukai, Shingon Esoteric Buddhism, and Kobo Daishi devotion through 88 masterpieces. MISIA serves as the exhibition navigator and will also share memories of Mount Koya in the audio guide.

Venue

Tokyo National Museum

13-9 Ueno Park, Taito-ku, Tokyo 110-8712