Standing Statue of Bishamonten

Wood, polychrome · Heian period · 12th century · Otokuni-dera, Kyoto

In the temple where Kūkai and Saichō debated doctrine stands a guardian deity whose features are tinged with melancholy.

Exhibition: Celebrating 1250 Years Since the Birth of the Great Master Kūkai: Kūkai and the Treasures of Shingon Buddhism — Tokyo National Museum · 2026-07-14 – 2026-09-06