At Rengein Tanjo-ji Okunoin in Tamana City, Kumamoto Prefecture, the Joya-no-Kane (New Year’s Eve bell ringing) will be held on New Year’s Eve.
The bell rung here is none other than the world’s largest temple bell, the “Hiryū no Kane” (Flying Dragon Bell)! It weighs a staggering 37.5 tons.
Approximately 2,000 people can ring the bell over about three hours.
Why not welcome the new year while listening to the sound of the world’s largest temple bell in a solemn atmosphere?
What is Rengein Tanjo-ji Okunoin?
It is a Shingon Ritsu sect temple enshrining Kōen Daibosatsu as its principal image.
Many people visit it as a temple of “Ichigan Joju” (fulfillment of a single wish) and “Yakubarai” (warding off evil).
The entire temple grounds are said to be a power spot, and you can experience a sense of purification both mentally and physically.
Joya-no-Kane Details
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Date and Time | December 31, 2024, 11:00 PM to 2:00 AM the following day |
| Location | 1512-77 Tsukiji, Tamana City, Kumamoto Prefecture, Rengein Tanjo-ji Okunoin |
| Access | Approximately 10 minutes by car from Shin-Tamana Station on the Kyushu Shinkansen Line<br>Approximately 10 minutes by car from Tamana Station on the Kagoshima Main Line |
| Fees | Temple visit fee: Adults 200 yen, Children 150 yen |
| Inquiries | Rengein Tanjo-ji Okunoin 0968-74-3533 |
Nearby Tourist Spots
- Rengein Tanjo-ji: A temple of the Kyushu Bekkaku Honzan (special head temple) located about 10 minutes by car from Okunoin.
- Tamana Onsen (Hot Springs): A hot spring known as a “beauty bath.” Day trips are also possible.
- Mt. Odake: From the summit, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Ariake Sea and Mt. Unzen-Fugendake.
Why not welcome the new year while listening to the sound of the world’s largest temple bell at Rengein Tanjo-ji Okunoin?