Shodoshima Sacred Sites Opening Ceremony

About this event

The "Shimabiraki Hoyo" memorial service, a seasonal tradition heralding the start of the spring pilgrimage to the Shodoshima sacred sites, will be held. This service takes place every year on January 21, the monthly memorial day of Kobo Daishi, praying for the safety of ohenro pilgrims on their journey throughout the year. On the day, pilgrimage temples, members of the pilgrimage association, goeika hymn choirs, worshippers, and islanders welcome the pilgrims at Tonosho Port and march in a procession of about 1 kilometer to the Sacred Sites Association Head Office. It is a valuable opportunity to experience the beginning of the pilgrimage handed down since ancient times amidst the grand nature and beautiful scenery of Shodoshima. In a solemn atmosphere praying for the safety of the year's pilgrimage, participants move forward with united hearts. This traditional event symbolizes the start of the pilgrimage around the 88 Sacred Sites of Shodoshima, with many people participating and coming into contact with its history and spirit.

Venue

Shodoshima Sacred Sites Association Head Office

6134-2 Nishihonmachi, Tonosho-cho, Shozu-gun, Kagawa 761-4105