Ōtaniji

Ōtaniji is an ancient temple surrounded by the remarkable rock formations of Ōtani-chō in Utsunomiya City. Located in an area famous for Ōtani stone quarrying, the rock-carved Buddha images on its cliff face are designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan. According to tradition, it was founded in the Heian period and possesses over a thousand years of history. Known as "Ōtani Kannon," the compassionate image of the Kannon carved into the rock face has continued to heal the hearts of many pilgrims.