Location: Otagi nenbutsu-ji Temple

Date: November, 10, Sunday

Time: 13:00-15:00

Map: Here

about Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple

Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple locates at the deepest end of the area in northern west part of Kyoto,in a quiet mountain area surrounded by nature.

You can visit the precious wooden architectures that give tastes of Kyoto’s history, and the Buddhist statues (for warding off evil and fire). In addition, there are 1200 unique and one-of-a-kind arhat statues (stone sculptures modeled after Buddha’s excellent disciples) lined up throughout the grounds, soothing and healing to visitors. Despite the inconvenience of transportation, many travellers also come from overseas, and it is also known as “Japanese famous hidden temple.

about Tengu no sakamori (Mountain god’s banquet)

The head priest and five ascetic monks begin a Buddhist prayer. After that, five Tengu appear. They shoot a bow and arrow, which brings good luck (this temple used to be located in a town of bow and arrow craftsmen), to ward off evil spirits, and the spectators compete to get the arrow.

They march around the main hall and through the crowd, surrounding the monks inside the hall and being moved by the beauty of the monks’ chanting. Those who wish can receive a talisman (500 yen fee as mentioned above) and be blessed by the Tengu to ward off evil spirits.

This is a rare event even in entire Japan. We hope that this festival will be an opportunity to connect with the local residents and have a very unique experience.

This is an annual event that takes place at this time every year. The name of this festival, “Sakamori”, means drinking alcohol and having fun, but no alcohol is actually served at this festival,

“Tengu” is a legendary creature in Japan, and had been feared since ancient times as a mountain god and a monster. However, in recent times it has come to be used affectionately as an emoji 👺.

Notice

It’s a little bit distance to walk from Arashiyama Station to the temple, so we recommend taking a taxi or bus. Also, since it’s in the mountains, be sure to take precautions against the cold.

If you visit, please take advantage of BagDrop.