Expedition to the 1553 Stone-Carved Monks of Nihon-ji
Come out adventuring on Obscura Day to visit Japan's largest stone-carved Buddha and the carved monks of Nihon-ji
Kyonan, Japan
Get tickets!Description
Trains, boats, busses & ropeways; getting to Nihon-ji at Nokogiriyama is as much a part of the adventure as the payoff: seeing Japan's largest stone-carved Buddha, the amazing "hyaku-shaku" (100ft) Kanon, and of course the 1553 hand-carved stone Arhats (monks of a higher enlightenment) which have an immediate, alien intensity. Founded in 725, Nihon-ji has changed hands many times & seen much turmoil, including great destruction during the anti-Buddhist movement during the Meiji Restoration, but it's idyllic Tomb Raider-esque setting perseveres and is today a very different temple complex than can be found at places like Kamakura or Nara. Even if you're "templed-out" you'll appreciate this rarity which many foreigners often pass over!
Proceeds from ticket sales will be go to support children orphaned in the 3.11 disasters
Where
Special instructions
Meet at Yokohama Station, just outside the West Exit, 10am
Wear comfortable, old shoes & dress in layers since the mountain top & boat ride can get chilly.
