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Five Hundred Arhats of Kita-in Temple

Saitama, Japan

Five Hundred Arhats of Kita-in Temple

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Tucked within the grounds of Kawagoe's historic Kita-in Temple, this captivating outdoor collection features 538 uniquely carved stone statues representing the Buddha’s disciples. Created during the late Edo period, these moss-draped figures break away from solemn Buddhist conventions to showcase an endearing range of relatable everyday emotions. Visitors can spot arhats laughing, weeping, gossiping, and even playfully picking their noses alongside serene meditating masters. It offers a charmingly human, delightfully humorous glimpse into traditional Japanese stone craftsmanship.

  • Temples & Shrines
  • Buddhist Art
  • Statues & Monuments
  • Gardens
  • Edo Period
  • Historic Sites

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