KŪKAI空海传
A feature documentary by director Yue Ye (悦野) tracing the life of Kūkai (774–835 AD) — the Japanese monk who studied under Tang Dynasty masters in Chang'an and carried esoteric Buddhism and Chinese culture across the sea to Japan. Winner of 8 international awards, including Best Documentary at the London Independent Film Festival, with over 20 festival selections worldwide.
A Journey Across the Sea
Produced by Deep Value, Inc. and crowdfunded by viewers around the world, KŪKAI is director Yue Ye's feature debut. Filmed across Japan, China, and along the sea routes that once connected Tang-era Chang'an to Mount Kōya, it is a meditation on Kūkai's philosophy of "purity of heart" and "compassion for all beings."
"The mind is like the vast ocean, reflecting the moon of truth."
Upcoming Screenings
Kyoto National Museum
Main Hall • Oct 14, 2026
The Barbican Centre
Cinema 1 • Nov 02, 2026
Lincoln Center
Walter Reade Theater • Dec 08, 2026
Preserve the Legacy
Every donation funds the preservation of archival film and the continuation of our documentary mission.
The Sacred Pilgrimage
Much of the film was shot on location across the 88 Temple Pilgrimage. Our crew walked over 400 miles to capture the authentic spirit of the devotees and the quiet majesty of the landscape that shaped Kukai's vision.
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