Goen-bi Kigan-kai & Goma Ritual

Event Overview

Located in Sakuragawa, Ibaraki Prefecture, Futsumi Kannon Koyama-ji Temple has been a center of prayer since its founding in 735 AD. The "Goen-bi Kigan-kai & Goma" event is a sacred ritual dedicated to the temple's main deity, the Eleven-faced Kannon. Koyama-ji is a historic temple founded by the monk Gyoki under the patronage of Emperor Shomu. The grounds feature several significant cultural properties, including the main hall, a three-story pagoda, the Nio Gate, and a bell tower. Rituals are performed for various personal intentions, such as relief from daily anxieties, protection from bad luck (Yakuyoke), or prayers for vehicle safety.

Highlights

The centerpiece of this event is the prayer to the Eleven-faced Kannon, a deity believed to look in eleven directions to save all beings from suffering. In addition to prayers in the main hall, the Goma fire ritual is performed. Goma is a traditional Buddhist ceremony using fire to burn away worldly desires and fulfill wishes. This is a rare opportunity to experience authentic Japanese spiritual traditions within a serene space surrounded by historic architecture and cultural assets.

Schedule

The ritual is scheduled for the following date:

• *Date**: July 18, 2026

Venue & Access

The event takes place at Futsumi Kannon Koyama-ji Temple in Sakuragawa, Ibaraki.

Access is primarily via car or public transportation. We recommend checking your route and local traffic conditions in advance.

Participation Tips

Koyama-ji hosts various ceremonies throughout the year, including rituals for bad luck prevention and vehicle safety. There are different ways to pray, such as praying directly before the deity or participating in the Goma fire ritual. It is helpful to confirm the specific method of prayer that suits your needs beforehand. Additionally, the unveiling of the main deity is an extremely rare event that occurs only once every 62 years, making this a highly precious opportunity.

Essentials & Etiquette

When participating in a temple ceremony, please note the following:

• *Payment**: Fees for prayers or Goma rituals may require **cash**. Please prepare Japanese Yen in advance.
• *English Support**: English language support is not guaranteed.
• *Reservations**: It is highly recommended to call the temple (+81 296-75-4440) in advance to consult about specific prayer requests or the Goma ritual.
• *Manners**: Temples are sacred spaces. Please remain quiet and respectful of other worshippers. Treat all cultural properties (such as the main hall and pagoda) with the utmost respect.