The story of Kukai's life titled "Sora to Umi" and depicted by Japanese paper sculptor Kiyoharu Uchiumi is displayed in 18 scenes at two locations. Scenes one through nine are at the Ehime Museum of History and Culture in the Uwa area of Seiyo City, and the remaining nine are at the Takanoko Onsen Hotel in Matsuyama.
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Kukai's Life in Paper Sculptures
A free exhibition at Takanoko Onsen Hotel in Matsuyama

By L. MacLean
Community writer

The story of Buddhist saint Kukai's life titled "Sora to Umi" is depicted by Japanese paper sculptor Kiyoharu Uchiumi at the Takanoko no Hotel in Matsuyama. (Photo: Laura MacLean)

The free exhibitions tell of Kukai's life from his birth as Mao Saeki in 774 to his death. Also known as Kobo Daishi, he was a monk, a poet, a calligrapher, a civil servant, a monk and the founder of Shingon Buddhism. (Photo: Laura MacLean)

The legends from Kukai's life sculpted from paper dramatically arranged make for an incredible sight. (Photo: Laura MacLean)

Kukai the civil servant. (Photo: Laura MacLean)

Kukai the calligrapher. (Photo: Laura MacLean)

The fine detail of the sculptures is especially evident in the facial expressions, hands, and hair of the subjects. (Photo: Laura MacLean)

Stages of Kukai's life are each simply described on signs in Japanese. (Photo: Laura MacLean)

The dolls have an impressive range of expressions, costumes, and poses. (Photo: Laura MacLean)

Both of these "Sora to Umi" exhibits and each of their scenes will inspire visitors to learn more about Kukai. (Photo: Laura MacLean)

There are scenes that are thought-provoking, inspiring, and joyous. (Photo: Laura MacLean)

Others are frightening and convey despair, amorality, and anger. (Photo: Laura MacLean)

On the mountain above Ishite-ji (Stone Hand Temple) in Matsuyama, Ehime stands a statue of Kukai or Kobo Daishi. (Photo: Laura MacLean)
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