Guide
Koryuji Temple is hosting a special public exhibition of the 'Shaka Nehanzu' (the painting of Buddha's Nirvana), a precious cultural treasure passed down through the history of Hakodate. This event is a significant celebration marking the successful restoration of this Hokkaido-designated cultural property. The centerpiece of the exhibition is a pair of massive hanging scrolls painted by Kaki-zaki Hakyo, who served as an elder of the Matsumae Clan and was a renowned painter. This is a rare opportunity to view the work up close, experiencing the overwhelming scale of the two scrolls, which stand approximately 3 meters tall and 1.4 meters wide.
Koryuji is recognized as one of the most historic temples in the Hakodate area. The 'Shaka Nehanzu' on display is a masterpiece that symbolizes the culture of the early Edo period and is officially registered as a Hokkaido-designated cultural property. The artist, Kaki-zaki Hakyo, was a distinguished figure who held a high-ranking position in the Matsumae Clan while also achieving fame as a master painter. After being preserved for a long time, this cultural treasure has been brought back to life through a dedicated restoration process funded by crowdfunding. Witnessing this moment of cultural preservation allows visitors to connect deeply with Japan's historical legacy.
The most striking feature is the sheer scale and artistic style of the work. The two scrolls, measuring roughly 3m in height and 1.4m in width, depict the grand scene of the Buddha's entry into Nirvana. Having just undergone meticulous restoration, the artwork has regained its original splendor. Beyond its value as a historical document, visitors can observe the exquisite brushwork of the artist and the profound aesthetic beauty of Buddhist art in person.
This special event is held for a limited time from April 1 to April 15, 2025. April is a beautiful time to visit the Hakodate area as the signs of spring begin to appear. The viewing hours are from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM (last entry/closing at 4:30 PM). We recommend visiting in the morning to enjoy the exhibition in a calm, serene atmosphere. As this is a limited-time exhibition, please check the schedule in advance to plan your visit.
The main focus of this event is 'cultural appreciation' within a peaceful, meditative setting. Observing the newly restored 'Shaka Nehanzu' within the temple grounds offers a sense of spiritual fulfillment that differs from standard sightseeing. Understanding the historical context will allow you to engage with the artwork on a much deeper level.
Koryuji Temple is located in the Funami-cho area of Hakodate. This neighborhood retains a sense of history, and you can enjoy the charming atmosphere of the city. We recommend combining this visit with a stroll through other historical spots in Hakodate or exploring the local scenery to enjoy the arrival of spring.
As this is a cultural exhibition held within a Buddhist temple, please observe the following guidelines: