The 'Magokoro Tennyo', or 'Goddess of Sincerity', is a monumental sculpture housed within the main branch of the Mitsukoshi department store in Tokyo's Nihonbashi district. Created by artist Gengen Sato over a decade, this 11-meter, 6.8-ton masterpiece, carved from 500-year-old hinoki cypress, symbolizes the store's core value of sincerity. Adorned with over 12,000 jewels, including diamonds, jade, and agate, it depicts a 'tennyo' (a female spiritual being from Japanese Buddhist mythology) descending from the clouds, accompanied by a phoenix, amidst a backdrop of intricate floral designs and flamelike waves.
Visitors consistently praise the sculpture's impressive scale and the extraordinary detail of its craftsmanship. Many are surprised to discover such a significant artwork within a department store, often describing it as a hidden gem. The elaborate carvings, the vibrant use of gold and jewels, and the overall artistic complexity are frequently highlighted as captivating features. Reviewers often recommend taking time to observe the sculpture from different angles, including from the upper floors, to fully appreciate its grandeur and intricate design.
To make the most of your visit, allocate about 15-30 minutes to view the sculpture. It is best seen during regular store hours, which are typically from 10:00 AM to 7:30 PM. There is no specific best time of day, as the indoor setting provides consistent lighting. While the sculpture itself is the main draw, the historic Mitsukoshi department store offers a unique shopping experience, and visitors might enjoy exploring its various departments, especially the food hall in the basement, which is often praised for its selection.
The Mitsukoshi main branch is conveniently located about a 10-minute walk from either Nihonbashi Station (served by the Ginza, Tozai, and Asakusa subway lines) or Tokyo Station (a major hub for JR lines and Shinkansen). When arriving, look for the older building, which is identifiable by replicas of the Trafalgar Square lions at its entrance. The sculpture is prominently displayed in the ground floor reception area. Follow the signs within the store to easily locate it. Public transport is highly recommended due to limited parking in the area.
A common observation from visitors is that the store can be very busy, especially on weekends or during sales. To mitigate this, consider visiting on a weekday morning or early afternoon for a more relaxed viewing experience. While the sculpture is large and hard to miss, the store itself is expansive and split into two connected buildings, so ensure you enter the correct, older building to avoid unnecessary searching.