This tiny temple perched on a slope in Ningyō-cho, in the heart of Tokyo, houses a cast-iron head of Kannon. Once part of a now-lost larger image, this damaged head was found buried in a well after Japan’s period of Buddhism-bashing that took place in the latter half of the 19th century. It is a hibutsu that is displayed on the 17th day of every month.

steps leading up to Ōkannonji

courtyard

Ōkannonji

main hall

view from top

hibutsu of a head of Kannon