EndedFestivals & FireworksNara
Obusama Omi-nugui Ritual
大仏さまお身拭い
Experience the sacred ritual of purifying the Great Buddha at Todai-ji Temple on August 7th.
This event has ended
Schedule
August 7, 2026 07:00 – August 7, 2026 09:30
Guide5 min read
"Obusama Omi-nugui" is a special ritual held at Todai-ji Temple in Nara, within the Great Buddha Hall (Daibutsuden)—one of the world's largest wooden structures.
Highlights
Traditional RitualsTodai-ji Great BuddhaSutra Copying Experience
About Obusama Omi-nugui Ritual
- Architectural Grandeur: Experience the overwhelming scale and solemnity of the Great Buddha Hall, one of the world's largest wooden buildings.
- Spiritual Connection: Connect deeply with Japanese culture through Sutra Copying (Shakyo), offering your personal prayers to the Great Buddha.
- Living Tradition: A rare chance to witness the sacred purification of the Great Buddha, a tradition preserved through the centuries of Nara's history.
Photo gallery
All photosWeather forecast
Thu
9/17
28°/21°
37%
Fri
9/18
29°/22°
22%
Sat
9/19
29°/23°
27%
Sun
9/20
27°/23°
25%
Mon
9/21
27°/19°
25%
Tue
9/22
27°/17°
6%
Wed
9/23
27°/18°
8%
Tips
Etiquette
Photography, sketching, and flashlight use are prohibited inside the hall. Please refrain from using tripods or taking group photos.
Sutra Copying
You can practice sutra copying at Shizudo Hall; these works are offered to the Great Buddha on August 7th. Contact the temple in advance for groups of 10 or more.
