Guida
On December 17, the Shito Daimogo ritual will be held at Wakamatsu-ji Temple in Tendo City, Yamagata Prefecture. Wakamatsu-ji is a historic temple with 1,300 years of history, home to the Wakamatsu Kannon, a deity known for granting successful connections. This Shito Daimogo ceremony uses fire to pray for traffic safety, recovery from illness, and the removal of all misfortunes.
The centerpiece of this event is the Shito Daimogo ritual performed at the Kannon-do hall. The traditional use of fire for purification is a significant aspect of Japanese religious ritual. The flickering flames and the sound of prayers echoing through the silence offer a deeply spiritual experience. You can witness the traditional Japanese prayer ritual up close within the atmosphere of the historic Kannon-do hall.
This event will take place on Thursday, December 17, 2026.
The ceremony is held at the Kannon-do hall within the Wakamatsu-ji temple grounds.
Access is via public transportation or car. It is recommended to check your travel route from major cities in Yamagata in advance.
This ritual is a unique opportunity to experience traditional Japanese prayer for specific wishes such as traffic safety or health. The ceremony is scheduled to begin at 10:00 AM. As it is held in the Kannon-do hall, visitors are asked to remain quiet and respectful of the sacred environment.
Cash is required for participation or offerings (Ofuse). Please check with the official website in advance regarding the availability of credit cards or electronic money.
This is a traditional Buddhist ritual; professional English explanations or interpreters are not permanently available. It is helpful to understand the meaning and etiquette of the ritual beforehand.
Please check in advance if a reservation is required for this event.
As December in Yamagata is very cold, please bring heavy winter clothing such as thick coats, gloves, and heat packs (Kairo). When entering the temple grounds, it is polite to wear easy-to-remove shoes and socks.