Rakan Sculptures at Otagi Nenbutsu-Ji
Arashiyama, Kyoto, Kansai, Honshu, Japan
Image ID: JAPAN-ARASHIYAMA-OTAGI-NENBUTSU-JI-0001 Photo © Ilya Genkin
Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple is hidden in the hills in far western Arashiyama. It is most famous for its collection of 1200 Rakan statues that represent the disciples of the historical Buddha. These statues are a relatively recent addition to a temple, which has a long and rather unfortunate history. In 1955 a new head priest was appointed. His name was Kocho Nishimura and he began the long process of renovating the temple. Kocho Nishimura was not only a priest but an accomplished sculptor of Buddhist statues. He hit on the idea of having visitors carve their own statues for the temple under his guidance. These rakan statues, which represent Buddha's disciples, were all added to the temple between 1981 and 1991, but look much older as they are now fairly covered with moss. Because each statue was carved by a different person, each one is completely unique, and many have humorous expressions or whimsical poses.
Any photo in my collection can be made as a stunning black & white print.
Learn more about black & white prints
I want you to love your print.
Please note: final print colors may look slightly different than on your screen due to monitor variations - but the print will always be more beautiful in person!
For more details about prints, materials, and process, see:
Fine Art Prints | Prints FAQ | Black & White | Design Consultation
Arashiyama, Asia, Asian, attraction, East Asia, famous, far east, garden, Honshu, Japan, Japanese, Kansai, Kyoto, landmark, landscape, nobody, orient, oriental, Otagi Nenbutsu-Ji, Otagi Nenbutsuji, outdoor, outside, park, plant, Rakan Sculptures, Sagano area, scenery, scenic, shade, tourism, tourist, tourist attraction, tourist destination, travel, travel destination, tree, trees, zen
This image id JAPAN-ARASHIYAMA-OTAGI-NENBUTSU-JI-0001 of Rakan Sculptures at Otagi Nenbutsu-Ji, is copyrighted © by Ilya Genkin. This is not a public domain image.
I'm Ilya Genkin - an internationally recognised Australian landscape and fine art photographer based in Sydney. My passion for capturing the beauty of nature and our world translates into striking photographic prints that bring life, emotion, and inspiration to any space. From tranquil seascapes to dramatic mountainscapes, each image is a reflection of my vision and dedication to the art of photography.
Explore my extensive collection of fine art prints - crafted with the highest-quality materials to suit every style and budget. Whether you're looking for a luxurious, ready-to-hang piece or a beautifully printed work to frame yourself, each photograph is available in several premium formats: Gallery-quality Fine Art Paper Prints - ready for framing, and Professional Canvas Prints - classic and timeless texture.
Each artwork is meticulously printed and made-to-order to ensure you receive a piece that elevates your home, office, or commercial space.
I collaborate with interior designers, home stylists, and architects to create bespoke wall art tailored to your project's aesthetic and colour palette. Prints can be customised and sized to complement your space perfectly. All pieces are made-to-order, and pricing varies based on size, quantity, and shipping.
Contact me to discuss your project and request a personalised quote.
By choosing my work, you're not just acquiring exceptional art - you're supporting an independent Australian artist and contributing to a vibrant local creative community. Every purchase directly helps sustain and grow this craft, bringing authentic and meaningful art into your life.
Request a free mockup to see how a chosen photograph will look in your space before you buy.
Online Store Opens 24/7
Email:
Phone: +61 (0) 421 055 613
Crafted with care for the planet - using sustainable materials and eco-friendly packaging.
Ilya Genkin Photography acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we operate, live and gather as employees, and recognise their continuing connection to land, water and community. We pay respect to Elders past, present and emerging.