Special Exhibition: 1250 Years Since Birth of Great Master Kukai & Treasures of Shingon Buddhism

The National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties preserved by the 18 head temples of Shingon Buddhism, as well as their affiliated temples, will be gathered together under one roof, transcending the boundaries of individual sects. A major highlight is the rare opportunity to see hidden Buddha statues from various regions that are normally kept away from public view, such as the "Seated Statue of Kobo Daishi" (Kongobu-ji Temple, Wakayama), the Important Cultural Property "Standing Statue of Eleven-Headed Avalokitesvara" (Kanbodai-ji Temple, Mie), and the Important Cultural Property "Seated Statue of Cintamanicakra" (Daimon-ji Temple, Osaka), alongside famous masterpieces like the National Treasure "Legends of Mount Shigi" (Chogosonshi-ji Temple, Nara), which is a staple in textbooks, and temple treasures related to the Goshichanichi Mishiho ritual that serves as the bond for the Association of Head Monasteries, including the National Treasure "Twelve Devas" (Saidai-ji Temple, Nara) and the Important Cultural Property "Standing Statues of Sacred Avalokitesvara, Brahma, and Shakra" (Kyo-o-gokoku-ji [To-ji] Temple, Kyoto). By appreciating the finest temple treasures of the 18 head temples of Shingon Buddhism through themes like "Kukai," "Goshichanichi Mishiho," "The 18 Head Temples," and "Hidden Buddhas," this exhibition allows visitors to truly experience the 1,200-year history of how the teachings of Kobo Daishi Kukai spread widely throughout Japan and have been carefully preserved and passed down to this day.

The Association of Head Monasteries of Shingon Buddhism (Kakuzankai) is composed of the 18 head temples of the Shingon sect. To commemorate the 1,250th anniversary of the birth of Kobo Daishi Kukai, the founder of Shingon Buddhism, in 2023, the head temples of each affiliated sect have combined their forces to host this major exhibition.

Every year, the Association selects a Dai-Ajari (Grand Master) from among the chief abbot-monks of the 18 head temples to perform the Goshichanichi Mishiho, which is widely considered the highest ritual in Shingon Buddhism. Customarily, the chosen Dai-Ajari also serves as the Chojo (Head) of Shingon Buddhism for that year.

This exhibition breaks down denominational barriers, bringing together an extraordinary collection of temple treasures under one roof. It features numerous National Treasures and Important Cultural Properties preserved by the 18 head temples and their affiliated temples.

• During the exhibition period, some of the works on display will be changed.
• One ticket per person; valid only on the day of your visit.
• Free admission for junior high school students and younger, persons with disabilities and one caregiver. Please present your student ID, disability certificate, etc. when entering the facility.
• Students who are Tokyo National Museum Campus Members can purchase same-day tickets for 1,100 yen (200 yen discount). At the main gate ticket office (counter), please state that you are a Campus Members student and present your student ID.
• Advance reservations are not required for this exhibition. During busy times, you may have to wait to enter.
• With this exhibition ticket, you can also view the Tohaku Collection Exhibition (regular exhibition) on the day of your visit.
• Once purchased, tickets cannot be changed, refunded, or reissued.
• Resale of this exhibition ticket is prohibited. Please note that we are not responsible for any problems related to tickets purchased fraudulently.
• The exhibited works, exhibition period, opening hours, closing days, etc. are subject to change due to future circumstances. Please check the official exhibition website for the latest information.