Kannonji Juroku Rakan Temple

Kannonji Temple in Taketa, Oita, is best known for a cluster of stone Buddha figures carved directly into the cliff face beside the temple buildings. The 500-figure ensemble of Rakan, disciples of the historical Buddha, are carved in varying sizes with individual facial expressions, some serene, some laughing, some weathered almost smooth by centuries of rain. A covered passage runs along the base of the cliff, allowing close inspection of the carvings at eye level. The temple grounds also include a small graveyard and a quiet main hall. Taketa itself is known for its castle ruins and samurai district, and Kannonji makes a strong complement to those sites within the same half-day.