Japanese temples host sacred statue viewings during autumnal equinox

Temples in Japan are hosting special public viewings of sacred Buddhist statues during the autumnal equinox period.

At Ryukozan Kannon-in in Okaya, a rare phenomenon occurred where the rising sun and sunlight reflecting off Lake Suwa created a ‘two suns’ effect. This light illuminated the temple’s main deity, the Eleven-faced Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva. Due to weather conditions, this specific visual occurrence had not been seen since the previous spring.

In Yokohama, Shingyouji temple has scheduled its ‘Gokaicho’ public viewing for September 23. During this event, visitors can view the temple’s hidden deity, the Eleven-faced Kannon statue, with free admission and access to limited edition commemorative stamps.