[Tokyo Jindaiji] Once in 50 Years Special Event Now - Model of Kaku Daishi

At Jindaiji, besides the main hall, there is the Gansan Daishi Hall, where the Gansan Daishi statue is on special display. Normally, the Gansan Daishi statue is revealed only once every 50 years, but this is a special public viewing to commemorate the completion of the major repairs in the Reiwa era. The Gansan Daishi statue is said to have been made during the Kamakura period in response to the Mongol invasions, depicting a seated meditation pose. It is Japan’s largest portrait sculpture at 195 cm tall, impressively large, with a glossy black face and powerful eyes that leave a strong impact.

The original Gansan Daishi (Ryogen), who inspired the statue, was a real person from the 10th century and is known as the revitalizer of Mount Hiei. He was especially skilled in warding off evil. Kaku Daishi became famous again during the COVID-19 pandemic and is considered an incarnation of Gansan Daishi. You can receive a Kaku Daishi talisman, and although it’s hard to find, there is also a stone monument—be sure to look for it.

Additionally, Gansan Daishi is said to be the originator of omikuji (fortune slips). The omikuji at Jindaiji follow an ancient style, with as much as 30% being bad luck. However, bad luck is believed to have the power to turn into good luck. Hearing that makes you want to draw bad luck, but unfortunately? I got great luck.

Also, the area around Jindaiji is famous for soba noodles, and there is a Soba Guardian Kannon statue as well. How about taking a stroll around?

Name: Jindaiji
Address: 5-15-1 Jindaiji Motomachi, Chofu City, Tokyo
Hours: 6 AM to 5 PM
Parking: Use nearby paid parking lots

Great Public Viewing
Period: April 26 to June 2, 2025
Viewing Hours: 10 AM to 4 PM
Admission: 1000 yen

#Jindaiji #GansanDaishi #KakuDaishi #Omikuji #Soba
#PublicViewing
#Chofu #Tokyo
#EnjoyJapan