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Aki no Higan-e

Guide

Aki no Higan-e

6 min read

Event Overview

Aki no Higan-e is a traditional Buddhist ceremony held at Ryotan-ji, a historic Zen temple located in Iinoya, Hamamatsu City, Shizuoka Prefecture. Centered around the Autumnal Equinox (the middle day of Higan), this significant ritual brings together the local community and practitioners to offer gratitude and prayers to ancestors. Ryotan-ji is famously associated with the legendary Sengoku-period female warlord, Ito 直虎 (Ito Naotora), making it a profound site for those wishing to connect with Japanese history and spirituality.

Highlights and Experience

The essence of this event lies in experiencing the traditional Japanese concept of "Higan" (the passage of the seasons and spiritual equilibrium). Amidst the crisp, clear autumn air, the memorial service held within the silent temple grounds offers a moment of deep peace and reflection. Furthermore, Ryotan-ji houses a wealth of precious cultural assets, including items related to Oda Nobunaga and exquisite Edo-period folding screens. Visitors can explore these historical treasures around the time of the ceremony, making it a multi-layered experience of art, history, and seasonal beauty.

Schedule

Scheduled for September 23, 2026, starting at 14:00.

Venue and Access

The event takes place at Ryotan-ji Temple in Hamamatsu, Shizuoka.

By Car

  • From **Higashi-Meish Kan Expressway "Hamamatsu-nishi I.C"**: Head north on Route 257 for approx. 30 mins.
  • From **Higashi-Meish Kan Expressway "Mikkabi I.C"**: Head east on Route 362 for approx. 20 mins.
  • From **Shin-Tomei Expressway "Hamamatsu-Inasa I.C"**: Head south on Route 257 for approx. 10 mins.
  • From **舘山寺 (Kanzanji) Onsen area**: Head north for approx. 20 mins.

By Bus

  • From **Hamamatsu Station**: Take the "45 Okuyama" bus from Bus Stop 15, get off at "Jingu-ji," then walk for approx. 10 mins.

By Train

  • From **Shin-Hamamatsu Station**: Transfer to the Enshu Railway to "Nishikajima Station," then transfer to the Tenryu Hamanako Railroad to "Kanazashi Station." From Kanazashi Station, it is a 5-minute taxi ride.
  • From **Shin-Korahara Station (JR Tokaido Line)**: Transfer to the Tenryu Hamanako Railroad to "Kiga Station." From Kiga Station, it is a 5-minute taxi ride.

Visitor Tips

Aki no Higan-e is a solemn ritual celebrating a seasonal turning point. It is not a boisterous festival, but rather a quiet, meditative event for personal reflection and honoring ancestors. As the exhibition of cultural assets may vary, we recommend checking the temple's details in advance.

What to Bring and Etiquette

As this is a formal temple ceremony, please dress modestly and respectfully. For specific details regarding payment or reservation requirements, please consult the official website for the most current information.