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Togenuki Jizo-bon Reitaisai Festival

Guide

Togenuki Jizo-bon Reitaisai Festival

6 min read

Event Overview

Located in the Sugamo district of Toshima, Tokyo, Koko-ji Temple (famously known as Togenuki Jizo-bon) hosts the annual Togenuki Jizo-bon Reitaisai. The name 'Togenuki' (meaning 'splinter removal') stems from a legendary tale from the Edo period, where a woman's physical ailment was healed through the grace of Jizo Bosatsu. This tradition symbolizes the removal of both physical pain and emotional burdens.

The Reitaisai is a special ceremonial event held on the 24th of January, May, and September. It offers a profound opportunity to step away from daily life and purify the mind and body through solemn Buddhist rites.

Highlights & Rituals

There are two major highlights that define this sacred festival:

  • *Daihannya-kyo Chanting**: This is a spectacular ritual where many monks hold sutra books high in the air and flip the pages rapidly. The resulting wind from the rhythmic turning of the pages is believed to sweep away bad luck and misfortune for the year.
  • *Arai Kannon**: A traditional practice involving the sacred Kannon deity. Visitors perform a ritual of pouring water and wiping specific areas of the body to pray for physical healing and relief from ailments.

During the festival, the nearby Sugamo Jizo-dori—often called the "Grandma's Harajuku"—is filled with vibrant energy, perfect for enjoying local specialties like Shio Daifuku (salted mochi) and lucky charms.

Schedule

The Reitaisai is held three times a year on specific dates:

  • *January 24** (Winter season)
  • *May 24** (Spring season)
  • *September 24** (Autumn season)

Venue & Access

Koko-ji Temple is easily accessible from major hubs in central Tokyo:

  • *Sugamo Station** (JR Yamanote Line or Toei Mita Line)**: Approximately a 5-minute walk
  • *Koshun-zuka Station** (Tokyo Sakura Tram/Toden Arakawa Line)**: Approximately a 10-minute walk

The surrounding shopping street is pedestrian-friendly and highly accessible, making it easy to navigate even during the busy festival days.

Tips for Visitors

This is a solemn religious event rather than a standard tourist attraction. During the Daihannya-kyo chanting, you may feel the wind from the flipping pages; it is said that being touched by this wind brings good fortune. We recommend observing the ritual with quiet respect.

Etiquette & Practical Info

As this is a functioning temple, please dress appropriately for a religious setting.

  • *Dress Code**: Modest clothing that covers the shoulders and legs is recommended for entering the temple grounds.
  • *Reservations**: No prior reservation is required to attend.
  • *Payment**: While the shopping street is lively, many local stalls and small shops primarily accept cash.