Futai-ji Temple, Nara-Shi

Located near Hannya-ji, Futai-ji is known for its flowers which include irises, chrysanthemums, camellias, golden bells, and hagi (Japanese bush clover). In 847 this temple was established by Narihira Ariwara, who is well known as a poet in the classic style. He was also a sculptor and carved a bodhisattva familiarly called "Sho-Kannon," usually referred to as the goddess of mercy. Narihira believed that the truth would help to provide salvation even for commoners. He preached that "Horin-o tenjite shirizokazu." From this phrase comes the formal name of the temple Futaiten-Horinji.