Kanzeon-ji Temple

Kyushu, Japan

Kanzeon-ji is located near Dazaifu. In 663 AD, emperor Tenji dedicated the temple to the memory of his mother, and as a guardian temple for an expedition in support of the Korean kingdom of Paekche. The failure of the Korean intervention brought about the gradual decline of Dazaifu.

Shown here is a Bato (horse-head) Kannon from the Treasure Hall, one of the many rare and unique colossal sculptures which are on view. A good English-language brochure is available on-site.