Higashi Honganji Temple (Otani branch of Shinshu Buddhism) respects the teachings of Buddhism and holds events and memorial services throughout the year that are open to the general public. Below are some of the main events and highlights.
🔹Kyoto Night Market
8.1 Spring and Autumn Memorial Services and Hoonko
🔸Spring Memorial Service (Spring Higan-e)
・Time: Around the Vernal Equinox (March 20th)
・Content: A memorial service to commemorate the virtues of Saint Shinran and offer gratitude to Amida Buddha. Monks chant sutras in the main hall, and worshippers are invited to join in.
・Features: Also known as “Higan-e,” this widely known event is a time for offering prayers for family remembrance and peace of mind.
🔸Autumn Hoonko
・Time: Mid-October to early November (October 21st to 31st in 2025)
・Content: This is the largest event in the Otani branch of the Shinshu sect, a memorial service expressing gratitude to Saint Shinran for his kindness.
・Highlights:
・In addition to grand services (chanting sutras and chanting), there are also sermons and musical memorial services.
・Many worshippers visit the temple grounds, and are overwhelmed by the grandeur and scale of the memorial service.
8.2 Seasonal Events and Ceremonies
Higashi Honganji Temple offers a variety of interactive and hands-on events throughout the year.
🔸Flower Festival (April 8th):
・A gorgeous spring event featuring tea parties for childcare mothers and tours of the Hanamidō (Flower Hall).
🔸Segaki Memorial Service (Mid-August):
・Sutras are chanted and offerings are made as a memorial for the hungry ghosts.
・Visitors may also participate in the sutra chanting and incense burning, providing a wonderful opportunity to experience Buddhist teachings.
🔸Year-End Joya-e:
・New Year’s Eve Bell Ringing, held from the evening of New Year’s Eve through New Year’s Day.
・Visitors are also invited to ring the bell, a peaceful way to welcome the New Year.
🔸Wedding Hall Opening Day/Wedding Service:
・Buddhist wedding ceremonies are also held within Higashi Honganji Temple, providing an opportunity to experience traditional rituals up close.
8.3 Participatory Events and Visitor Experiences
🔸Morning Service Experience (Participate in the Morning Service)
・Season: Year-round (basically every morning)
・Content: Listen to the monks chant sutras and sit in silence before the Buddha. The solemn atmosphere of the early morning also has the effect of calming the mind.
🔸Pilgrimage to Shinran Shonin’s Haiku Monuments and Booklet Distribution
・Content: A walking event where participants visit haiku monuments located throughout the temple grounds, pick up the accompanying booklet, and become familiar with the poetry of Shinran Shonin.
🔸Sutra Copying and Buddha Copying Experience
・Held irregularly: Sutra copying and Buddha copying (tracing and drawing Buddhist statues) are held, providing time for quiet concentration.
・How to Apply: Reservations are required at the temple office or on the official website. Participation fee is approximately 2,000-3,000 yen.
🔸Sermons & Priests
・Content: Buddhist sermons and Q&A sessions are held by monks, providing an opportunity for dialogue about life and faith.
・Frequency: Approximately once or twice a month, but irregular schedules are recommended.
✅ Summary
・The Spring Equinox and Autumn Hoonko are the main memorial services, featuring solemn sutra chanting and sermons.
・Seasonal events (such as the Flower Festival, Segaki, and New Year’s Eve) offer a valuable opportunity to participate in traditional rituals.
・Hands-on programs (such as copying sutras, morning services, and sermons) are a practical opportunity to center your mind.
・It is important to register in advance and confirm the date and time of the event. Please inquire on the Higashi Honganji official website or at the temple office.