Reisai (Annual Festival)

Event Overview

On October 10, 2026, Yasui Konpiragu in Higashiyama, Kyoto, will hold its annual 'Reisai' (Annual Festival). Yasui Konpiragu is highly famous for its reputation as a place to 'sever bad ties and connect good ones.' The shrine has a deep history, founded during the reign of Emperor Tenji by Fujiwara no Kamatari, and is also closely associated with Emperor Sutoku, who loved purple wisteria.

This Reisai is a significant milestone for the shrine. The grounds feature the massive 'En-kiri En-musubi Ishi' (Stone of Severing and Connecting Ties), which is 1.5 meters high and 3 meters wide, where many visitors pass through a hole to make their wishes. This festival offers a special time to pray for your destiny and relationships during this seasonal turning point.

Highlights & How to Enjoy

The greatest attraction is the experience at the 'En-kiri En-musubi Ishi.' The stone features a large central crack through which divine power is said to flow. Beyond just sightseeing, you can engage in a deeper ritual using a 'Katashiro' (a paper charm/votive).

First, after offering a prayer at the main shrine (Honden), take your 'Katashiro' (on which you have written your wish) and pass through the hole from the front side to the back side. This represents 'severing bad ties.' Then, pass through from the back side to the front side again to 'connect good ties.' Finally, stick the Katashiro onto the stone to complete your prayer. This ritual is a deeply memorable experience for all visitors.

Schedule

The event is scheduled as follows:

• *Date**: October 10, 2026
• *Time**: 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Venue & Access

The event takes place at Yasui Konpiragu, located in Higashiyama, Kyoto. It is easily accessible from major sightseeing routes.

Access: The shrine is within walking distance of major Kyoto sightseeing areas like Kiyomizu-dera and the Gion district, or easily reachable by bus.

Participation Tips

You can perform the ritual at the 'En-kiri En-musubi Ishi' throughout the day. However, please be mindful of your surroundings during the festival or specific ceremonies. 'Katashiro' (votive papers) are available on the left side of the stone. To use a Katashiro, an offering of 100 yen or more is required. We strongly recommend bringing cash (Japanese Yen) as credit cards cannot be used for this.

Things to Know (Etiquette & Preparation)

• *Payment**: To use the Katashiro, you must offer 100 yen or more in a coin box. Please prepare **cash (JPY)**.
• *English Support**: While detailed English guidance may be limited, the ritual steps are visually intuitive and easy to follow.
• *Reservations**: No reservation is required for the festival or the ritual. However, it is always wise to check the official website for any specific changes.
• *Dress Code**: Please wear neat, respectful clothing suitable for a shrine visit. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
• *Manners**: The shrine grounds are sacred. Please speak quietly and respect other worshippers. When using the stone, please follow the designated ritual order.