A special autumn exhibition titled "To-ji Mandala no Bi: Mandala World," or the beauty of To-ji Temple's mandala, displaying rare items, including "Ryokai Mandala-zu," or Mandala of the Two Realms, a still colorful set of mandalas that is the oldest National Treasure in existence, began September 20 at Homotsukan Museum in To-ji Temple, Minami Ward, Kyoto City.

The mandala set depicts the stages of enlightenment in Buddhism, and it has been elevated to be the principal image for Buddhist services. Approximately 30 mandalas have been handed down at To-ji Temple.

"Ryokai Mandala-zu" consists of two mandalas representing "Taizo-kai," or womb world, and "Kongo-kai," or diamond world, and is now on public display for the first time in five years. Taizo-kai depicts many Buddhist figures such as "Bosatsu," or Bodhisattvas, encircling "Dainichi-nyorai," or Mahavairocana. Made in the 9th century, its Buddhist figures have exotic, gentle features. The original red, blue and green colors are still vivid.

A total of 54 items are on display. Other exhibits include the Important Cultural Property "Ninnokyo-goho-shoson-zu," a picture dynamically depicting Bosatsu, Myo-o and others, as well as the Important Cultural Property "Soshijji-gikikei-in-zu," a diagram explaining the symbolic positioning of Buddha's fingers.

The exhibition will continue until November 25. There is an admission fee. The National Treasure Ryokai Mandala-zu's Taizo-kai will be displayed until October 21, and Kongo-kai will be displayed from October 22.