Why not welcome the New Year by ringing the Joya-no-Kane (New Year’s Eve bell) at Honmyo-ji, a famous Nichiren sect temple in Kumamoto City?
Honmyo-ji, also known as the family temple of Lord Kiyomasa Kato, is a historic temple enveloped in a solemn atmosphere.
On New Year’s Eve, the first 108 people will have the opportunity to ring the Joya-no-Kane.
Joya-no-Kane Ringing
- Ticket Distribution: Numbered tickets will be distributed from around 11:00 PM.
- Bell Ringing: The first 108 people can ring the Joya-no-Kane for free.
- Water Purification Ritual: A water purification ritual (Suigyo-shiki) by monks will also be performed, allowing you to welcome the New Year in a solemn atmosphere.
Highlights of Honmyo-ji
- Niomon Gate: An impressive Niomon Gate designated as a National Registered Tangible Cultural Property.
- Main Hall: The dignified Main Hall is a valuable structure conveying the architectural style of the Momoyama period.
- Tomb of Lord Kiyomasa Kato: The tomb of Lord Kiyomasa Kato, the first lord of the Kumamoto Domain, is located here.
Event Information
| Item | Content |
|---|---|
| Date and Time | December 31, 2024, Ticket distribution from 11:00 PM |
| Location | 4-13-1 Hanazono, Nishi-ku, Kumamoto City, Kumamoto Prefecture, Honmyo-ji |
| Contact | 096-354-1411 |
| Access | From JR Kumamoto Station, take the Kumamoto City Tram to “Kumamoto Ekimae,” then change to “Honmyo-ji Iriguchi” and walk for 10 minutes. |
Surrounding Information
- Kumamoto Castle: The symbol of Kumamoto City.
- Suizenji Jojuen Garden: A Momoyama-style circuit-style garden.
Let’s ring the Joya-no-Kane at Honmyo-ji and start the New Year with a pure heart!