Ritual of Goma Fire Blessing

Event Overview

Located in Sakuragawa, Ibaraki Prefecture, Futiya Kannon Koyama-dera (Semui-san Hojuki Koyama-dera) has been beloved by worshippers since its founding in 735 AD. The "Goma Ritual" is one of the temple's most traditional ceremonies. During this event, a Goma (fire ritual) is performed to offer prayers to the main deity, the Eleven-faced Kannon Bodhisattva. Goma is a traditional ceremony where fire is used to burn away worldly desires and fulfill wishes. Koyama-dera is home to several national and prefectural cultural assets, including the main hall, a three-story pagoda, Niomon Gate, and bell tower, providing a sacred and historic backdrop for this special ritual.

Highlights

The most striking feature of this event is the Goma fire ritual. The use of fire in the ceremony is visually powerful and represents a significant aspect of Japanese Buddhist culture. The Eleven-faced Kannon Bodhisattva, the main deity, is believed to possess eleven faces to save people from suffering in all directions. Witnessing prayers offered before such a divine presence is a precious opportunity to touch the essence of Japanese spiritual culture. Additionally, the temple grounds feature various designated cultural properties, allowing you to feel the solemn atmosphere of the ritual amidst a historic landscape.

Date & Schedule

The event is scheduled for:

• Date: December 18, 2026

Venue & Access

The venue is Futiya Kannon Koyama-dera in Sakuragawa, Ibaraki.

[Address]

2181 Futiya, Sakuragawa, Ibaraki 309-1347

[Opening Hours]

The standard opening hours are 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

Participation Tips

Koyama-dera is a temple known for various prayers, including protection from misfortune, direction blessings, and vehicle safety. The "Goma Ritual" specifically uses fire to approach personal concerns or wishes through Buddhist ceremony. When visiting, please maintain a quiet and respectful attitude. Notably, the unveiling of the main deity occurs only once every 62 years, offering a truly unique and extraordinary atmosphere different from regular events.

Payment, Clothing & Etiquette

Payment Methods

For participating in rituals or paying offerings (Ofuse/Kito-ryo), please prepare cash (Japanese Yen). It is necessary to check in advance if electronic payments or credit cards are accepted.

English Support

There is no official information regarding English-speaking guides or interpreters. Detailed explanations of the ritual in English may be difficult to obtain.

Reservations

For participating in the event or requesting individual prayers (such as for bad luck, direction blessings, or vehicle safety), please consult the temple in advance via phone (0296-75-4440). It is highly recommended to contact them beforehand for a smooth experience.

Clothing & Etiquette

As this is a religious ceremony within a temple, please wear modest, calm clothing that is not too revealing. Please remain quiet during the ritual and respect the rules of etiquette to avoid disturbing the ceremony or other worshippers.