Photo= The soles of "Kanzeon Bosatsu Zazo's" feet can be seen from the hem of its garment (Mimurotoji Temple, Todo, Uji City, Kyoto Prefecture)

A special exhibition, in which the soles of both feet of the "Kanzeon Bosatsu Zazo," or the seated statue of Bodhisattva, an Important Cultural Property, can be observed, is being held at Mimurotoji Temple in Todo, Uji City, Kyoto Prefecture.

It is said that the seated statue was made in the late Heian Period. It kneels with its buttocks on its heels, which is a rare style for Buddhist states, and the soles of its feet can be seen from the hem of its garment. Usually, the statue can only be worshipped from the front side at the monthly public exhibition of "Homotsu-kan," or the treasure house. It is turned backwards only during the autumn foliage season every year. Kokyo Itami, the chief priest, said, "They are plump and charming foot soles."

It is open from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. only on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays in November. There is a 500 yen admission fee for adults, and a 300 yen additional fee is also necessary. For more information, call Mimurotoji Temple at 0774-21-2067.