Birth of Takasakis White Robed Kannon Statue Guided Tour

The "Birth of Takasaki’s White Robed Kannon Statue Guided Tour" offers an exclusive opportunity to explore the iconic Kannon statue and Jigen-in Temple. With a personalized experience led by a knowledgeable guide, visitors can explore the rich history and spiritual significance of this revered landmark. Priced at $36.95 per person, the tour promises an intimate glimpse into the architectural marvels and cultural traditions that have made the Kannon statue a beloved beacon in Takasaki. Intrigued? Let’s uncover more about this captivating tour.

This experience made our article of Our 6 Favorite Tours In Kanto.

Key Points

• The Kannon statue was commissioned in the 16th century by a local lord as a symbol of peace and enlightenment for the community.
• The 49-foot tall, pure white marble statue became a revered pilgrimage site for devotees across Japan.
• The guided tour includes exploring the Jigen-in Temple and the interior of the Kannon statue.
• The tour is priced at $36.95 per person, with a maximum group size of 8 for an intimate experience.
• The tour is operational daily from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM between July 2024 and February 2026.

Tour Overview

The "Birth of Takasaki’s White Robed Kannon Statue Guided Tour" is a captivating experience offered by Gunma Travel in the Kanto region of Japan.

Priced at $36.95 per person, the tour takes visitors on a journey to explore the Jigen-in Temple and its iconic white-robed Kannon statue.

With a maximum group size of 8 travelers, the tour ensures an intimate and personalized experience.

Operating daily from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM between July 2024 and February 2026, the tour includes a guide, an English-language pamphlet, and admission to the Kannon statue’s interior.

Meeting and End Point

Visitors meet at the Jigen-in Temple, also known as the Takasaki Byakue Dai-Kannon, located at 2710-1 Ishiharamachi, Takasaki, Gunma 370-0864, Japan.

They gather in front of the copper statue of Inoue Yasusaburo on the temple grounds. The tour begins and ends at this meeting point.

Directions are straightforward – the temple is the starting and ending location for the experience.

After exploring the Kannon Statue interior, the tour concludes back at the initial meeting spot, making it convenient for participants to depart.

Inclusions

This guided tour includes the guide fee, an English-language pamphlet, admission to the interior of the Kannon Statue, and meeting and pickup at the specified location.

The guide fee covers the cost of the knowledgeable local guide who’ll lead the tour and provide insights into the history and significance of the White Robed Kannon Statue.

The English-language pamphlet offers additional information that travelers can reference during the tour.

Admission to the Kannon Statue’s interior allows visitors to see the impressive statue up close and appreciate its intricate details.

Health and Accessibility

Though not wheelchair accessible, the tour does allow service animals. Travelers with back problems may want to reconsider, as the moderate physical fitness level required could be challenging.

Health Considerations	Accessibility
Not recommended for travelers with back problems	Not wheelchair accessible
Moderate physical fitness level required	Service animals allowed

Booking Information

Travelers can secure their spot on the guided tour while staying flexible through the "Reserve Now and Pay Later" option.

Confirmation is received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, allowing for last-minute changes.

Gunma Travel provides a Lowest Price Guarantee, ensuring the best value for travelers.

With these convenient booking policies, guests can plan their Takasaki adventure with confidence and ease.

History of the Kannon Statue

The Takasaki’s White Robed Kannon Statue has a rich and captivating history dating back centuries. It was commissioned in the 16th century by the local lord, who wanted to create a symbol of peace and enlightenment for his people.

The statue, standing at an impressive 49 feet tall, is made of pure white marble and depicts the bodhisattva Kannon, the goddess of mercy.

Over the years, the statue has become a revered pilgrimage site, attracting devotees from all over Japan who come to pray for blessings and seek solace.

Today, it remains a powerful spiritual and cultural icon for the Takasaki region.

Architectural Features of the Kannon Statue

The Takasaki’s White Robed Kannon Statue‘s architectural features are truly remarkable.

Towering at 42.8 meters, it’s one of the world’s largest statues of Kannon, the Buddhist goddess of mercy. The statue’s serene face, graceful pose, and flowing white robes create a sense of tranquility.

Beneath the main statue, an inner sanctuary houses smaller statues and intricate carvings. Visitors can explore this hidden space, marveling at the attention to detail.

The entire structure sits atop a hill, affording panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. This architectural masterpiece seamlessly blends religious symbolism with breathtaking design.

Spiritual Significance of the Kannon Statue

Spirituality permeates every aspect of the awe-inspiring Takasaki’s White Robed Kannon Statue. The colossal 49-foot structure represents the Buddhist deity of compassion, Kannon.

Visitors can feel the statue’s profound spiritual significance through:

1. Its serene expression, conveying a sense of tranquility and benevolence.
2. The intricate folds of the white robe, symbolizing the deity’s limitless mercy.
3. The 33 smaller statues adorning the base, representing the 33 forms of Kannon.
4. The statue’s location atop a hill, creating a powerful presence that uplifts the soul.

This spiritual experience leaves a lasting impression, inspiring reverence and reflection.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Is the Duration of the Guided Tour?

The guided tour lasts approximately 6 hours, operating from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Monday through Sunday, according to the tour overview information provided. The tour begins and ends at the Jigen-in Temple in Takasaki, Japan.

Can I Visit the Kannon Statue on My Own?

Yes, visitors can explore the Kannon statue on their own. The guided tour provides access to the statue’s interior, but the grounds and exterior can be visited independently during the temple’s regular operating hours.

Does the Tour Include Transportation From My Hotel?

The tour does not include transportation from your hotel. You’ll need to make your own way to the meeting point at Jigen-in Temple where the tour begins and ends. Pickup and drop-off services are not provided.

What Language Options Are Available for the Tour?

The tour offers an English-language pamphlet, and the guide provides commentary in English. No other language options are mentioned. Transportation from the hotel is not included – travelers must make their own way to the meeting point.

Are Photography and Video Allowed Inside the Kannon Statue?

Photography and video are allowed inside the Kannon statue. However, visitors are asked to be respectful and avoid disturbing the tranquility of the sacred space.

The Sum Up

The "Birth of Takasaki’s White Robed Kannon Statue Guided Tour" offers a unique opportunity to explore the iconic Kannon statue and Jigen-in Temple. Led by knowledgeable guides, this personalized experience provides insights into the rich history and spiritual significance of this revered landmark. With limited group sizes and daily availability, it’s an ideal way to take in Takasaki’s cultural heritage.