Ryuo-ji Temple Hechima Blessing and Prayer Ritual

About this event

Held every year on the night of the mid-autumn harvest moon (the 15th night) at Ryuo-ji Temple in Ryuo Town, Shiga Prefecture, the Hechima Blessing and Prayer Ritual is a secret esoteric ritual of the Tendai Sect that seals asthma into a hechima (loofah sponge gourd). Situated at the foot of Mount Yukino, Ryuo-ji is a historic Tendai temple founded in the early Nara period, also known for its connections to Masako Shirasu. Enshrining Yakushi Nyorai (the Medicine Buddha) as its principal image, this prayer ritual has been passed down by local residents since ancient times. While the date varies each year, in 2026 (Reiwa 8) it will be held on Friday, September 25. Why not take this opportunity to experience this ancient healing ritual?

Venue

Yukinosan Ryuo-ji Temple

41 Kawamori, Ryuo, Gamo District, Shiga 520-2521