At the Kanbutsue (Buddha’s Birthday Ceremony) held at Homanji Park, people celebrate the birth of Shakyamuni Buddha and pour sweet tea over the Buddha statue, praying for good health and protection from illness throughout the year. A gorgeous parade marches from the shopping street to Homanji Temple, including rickshaws carrying brides and grooms, and cute children in palanquins. Events such as dance troupes and Yosakoi performances are also held, offering entertainment throughout the day. From 2023, the format will be changed to have rickshaws participate in the parade instead of the “Shan-shan Uma” (horse with bells). Homanji Temple is said to bring blessings for safe childbirth, making it a place where families with children can participate with peace of mind.
Access Information
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Dates | April 28-29, 2023 [Day 1] Eve Festival [Day 2] Main Festival |
| Location | Homanji Park, Shibushi City, Kagoshima Prefecture |
| Organizer | Shakyamuni Buddha Festival Executive Committee |
| Contact | Shakyamuni Buddha Festival Executive Committee Secretariat (within the Shibushi City Tourism and Local Products Association) 099-472-8028 |
| Access | 20-minute walk from Shibushi Station on the Nichinan Line |
| Remarks | Temporary buses operate from Shibushi Station and other locations. |