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Ningyo Kuyo-sai (Doll Memorial Service)

Guide

Ningyo Kuyo-sai (Doll Memorial Service)

5 min read

Event Overview

Hokyo-ji is a historic nunnery known as "Ningyo-ji" (the Doll Temple), which flourished in medieval Kyoto. Every year on October 14, the Ningyo Kuyo-sai is held to express gratitude and offer prayers for cherished dolls. This special event offers a rare opportunity to experience the profound spiritual traditions of Japan within the grounds of a venerable temple.

Highlights & Experience

The centerpiece of this event is the solemn memorial service held in front of the Ningyo-tsuka (Doll Mound). Rather than simply discarding old items, Japanese culture emphasizes sending them off with gratitude—a sentiment you can witness firsthand through this ritual. Additionally, Hokyo-ji is home to beautiful seasonal gardens, historic architecture, and precious cultural assets, including items related to Emperor Komei. You can enjoy the tranquil scenery of the temple before and after the ceremony.

Schedule

The Ningyo Kuyo-sai follows this schedule:

  • *Reception**: 10:00 AM – 10:30 AM
  • *Ceremony Starts**: 10:30 AM

Venue & Access

The venue is the Ningyo-tsuka area of Hokyo-ji.

  • *Address**: 547 Teranouchi-dori Horikawa Higashi-iru, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto
  • *Access**:
  • From Kyoto Station: Take City Bus No. 9 to "Horikawa Teranouchi" stop, then 1-minute walk.
  • From Sanjo Keihan Station or Karasuma Station: Take City Bus No. 12 to "Horikawa Teranouchi" stop, then 1-minute walk.
  • From Imadegawa or Kuramaguchi Subway Stations: 15-minute walk.

Important Notes for Participants

If you wish to offer a doll for the memorial, please note that the reception window is very limited, occurring only from 10:00 AM to 10:30 AM on the day of the event. Please arrive with plenty of time to spare. As the ceremony is held in a quiet area, please maintain a respectful and quiet demeanor.

What to Bring, Clothing & Etiquette

  • *Clothing**: As this is a formal temple ceremony, we recommend wearing modest, respectful clothing (avoid overly revealing attire).
  • *Reservations**: No information regarding advance reservations is provided; however, strict adherence to the doll reception time is required.
  • *Etiquette**: Please remain quiet during the ritual to respect the ceremony and other visitors.
  • *Goshuin (Temple Seals)**: Hokyo-ji offers Goshuin daily. Please check the official website for details.