The Dude @Takakura-shrine (Okagaki-machi)

 

Found this through the window of the shop.

Pinched favorite fish from somewhere?

The wink seems like talking about various things.

While watching this, the image of "Dude" popped up in my mind.

On the third day of the new year, the number of people visiting the shrine is decreasing.

Takakura Shrine, the local guardian deity

The huge camphor trees bring a unique sense of tension and inclusiveness to the precincts.

Although the number is small, the people waiting for worship under the stone steps form a long line

I just want to see and say hello to "Dude" - that's all.

The statue of Bishamonten (Vaisravana) used to be enshrined open-air on top of the mountain, but when it returned to the shrine after restoration, it was again installed open-air at the foot of the mountain and on the north side of the precincts.

Last year, it was newly enshrined in the small pavilion.

The figure of Bishamonten standing straight with the sun at his back conveyed a kind of spiritual force with somewhat reality.

Being enshrined in the building that blocks the rain and wind, it looks too polite and formal just like setting barriers or the like around.

The look of the Jyaki (malicious ogre) being trampled by Bishamonten also seems different

The look from this side is also a little different.

Here's what Bishamonten looks like in January 2022

Although it was cloudy and no strong sunlight, could feel quite impressive.

I also liked the facial look of "Dude"

I don't have a particular objection to the current status, since it is a prefectural important cultural property, careful consideration must have been given to minimize deterioration, discoloration, corrosion, etc. by exposing it to the open air any longer... but...

I do miss the former look of "Dude" somewhat saying Hello! to the visitors.