Special exhibition of “DANDELION PROJECT” at the inner sanctuary of Shakado Hall, Enryakuji Temple, Hieizan, a World Heritage Site

Based on the spirit of the Tendai sect of Buddhism, “Shine a Light on a Corner,” Hieizan Enryaku-ji Temple hosts the annual World Peace Religion Summit, which transcends religious sectarian boundaries. This year, in commemoration of the 30th anniversary of Hieizan Enryaku-ji’s registration as a World Heritage site, a special exhibition will be held at the Shakado Hall, the oldest existing building of Enryaku-ji, for the first time in seven years. The previous special opening of the hidden statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, the first in 33 years, was attended by over 100,000 people.

This time, in addition to the special opening of the main statue of Buddha Shakyamuni and special viewing of the inner sanctuary, there will be a special exhibition of the “DANDELION PROJECT,” a participatory artwork created with the idea of connecting the world with prayers for peace that transcends all differences. When participants stand in front of the “DANDELION” art object and blow the object’s fluff, dandelion fluff carrying prayers for peace will spread across the walls via projection mapping, and candlelight spreading across the floor will softly illuminate the interior of Shakado Hall. The oldest building of Enryakuji Temple will be the stage for a new world of Buddha created and experienced through a fusion of the latest digital art technology.

Enryakuji Temple has been sending out messages of peace and connecting people. Through this exhibition, we will use art that can communicate beyond language to preserve the history and connect the desire for peace to the next generation. This fall, a light-up event will be held in the Sakamoto area of Hieizan, a place of syncretism between Shintoism and Buddhism, where Enryakuji’s satobo is located. The Enryakuji Shakado and the Sakamoto area of Hieizan will work together to send a message of peace that transcends all differences to the world.