National Treasures of To-ji Temple: Kukai and the Sculpture Mandala

The To-ji Temple was founded by Emperor Kanmu in 794 , following the relocation of the capital to Kyoto, and it became a symbol of divine protection. Meanwhile, a Japanese priest called Kukai was travelling to Tang-dynasty China to study the teachings of Esoteric Buddhism. Upon returning to Japan in 823, Kukai was granted control of To-ji by Emperor Saga, turning the temple into a focal point of Shingon Esoteric Buddhism. This exhibition will present artefacts handed down at To-ji, with a focus on the numerous items associated with Kukai himself. Highlights include magnificent sculptures and paintings, as well as works of calligraphy and decorative artworks of Esoteric Buddhism.