Hoonji Temple

Hoonji Temple (報恩寺, Hōonji) is a tranquil Zen temple best known for its extraordinary Rakando Hall, which houses 499 hand-carved statues of the Buddha’s disciples (rakan). These wooden figures were crafted by skilled artisans from Kyoto in the mid-1700s and are arranged in a circular formation around a central statue of Vairocana Buddha. Each statue is unique, with lifelike expressions and postures — some are even said to resemble historical figures such as Marco Polo and a grandson of Genghis Khan. The Rakando Hall itself is a cultural treasure, dating back to 1858, and is the oldest surviving structure on the temple grounds.

Located about 15 minutes on foot from central Morioka, the path to Hoonji Temple leads visitors along a quiet street lined with traditional shrines and temples — often considered one of the most beautiful temple approaches in Japan. Upon arrival, visitors pass through the wooden Sanmon Gate, walk past the temple bell, and enter the serene main hall, where a statue of Shaka Nyorai (the historical Buddha) is enshrined. Although Hoonji was originally founded in 1394, most of its buildings were reconstructed during the 20th century, preserving its Zen character while harmoniously blending old and new.