Zenkoji temple is independent from sect and has been visited by many people regardless of their creed for 1,400 years. The hidden Buddhist image is opened to the public once every seven years. This year it is opened.
I took a day trip there.
A large square wooden pole called “Ekou-bashira” is set up in front of the main hall. The end of the white rope wrapped around the pole is tied to the right hand of Buddhist image placed in the main hall. If you touch the pole, you are believed to have touched Buddha.
I could touch the pole after waiting in a queue for a while. So I am sure I could form thankful connection to Buddha.
