The Autumnal Special Exhibition at Eikando, or Zenrin-ji Temple, in Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, opened on November 7. There are 76 items, including the designated Important Cultural Properties "Amida Niju-go Bosatsu Raigo-zu," or painting of Amida (Amitabha) and Twnty-five Bodhisattvas, and "Jikkai-zu," or painting of Ten Worlds, on special exhibition.

The central theme of the exhibit is "Raigo," or Amida coming down to welcome believer's souls to paradise at their death.

Amida Niju-go Bosatsu Raigo-zu is estimated to be from the Namboku-cho Period. Bodhisattvas with plump faces cover the entire screen, expressing the purity of paradise while they perform heavenly music with drums and flutes. Jikkai-zu is a pair of screens which scrupulously portray the world of hell and demons.

In addition, the display includes items such as a picture depicting Yokan-risshi, also called Eikan, who pursued "nenbutsu," or Buddhist invocation, at Zenrin-ji Temple at the end of the Heian Period. The temple has become popularly known as Eikando after him. The display will run through December 6. There is an admission charge.