Kangetsu Sambutsu-e (Moon Viewing Buddhist Service)

About this event

At Toshodaiji Temple in Nishinokyo, Nara City, the 'Kangetsu Sambutsu-e' will be held on Friday, September 25, 2026, the night of the Harvest Moon. On this special evening, the area around the Kondo (Main Hall) and the garden of the Mieido (Founder's Hall) will be specially opened, providing an opportunity to admire the Harvest Moon together with Master Ganjin. Lanterns (andon) will be lit across the temple grounds, wrapping the area in a solemn atmosphere. The front 3 doors of the National Treasure Kondo will be opened and lights offered inside, allowing visitors to pay homage to National Treasure Buddhist statues including the principal image Seated Rushana Buddha, the Standing Yakushi Nyorai, and the Standing Thousand-Armed Kannon Bodhisattva. During the memorial service hours (18:00 to 21:00), admission and parking will be free of charge. Additionally, a dedicated tea offering ceremony will be strictly conducted at the Mieido by the Urasenke school. Note that admission fees are required only for the front garden of the Mieido. Event details are subject to change depending on circumstances.

Venue

Toshodaiji Temple

13-46 Gojocho, Nara, Nara 630-8032