Ikegami Honmonji Oeshiki

About this event

The Oeshiki at Ikegami Honmonji Temple is a memorial service of gratitude held on the death anniversary of founder Nichiren Shonin, taking place annually from October 11 to 13. In particular, the Manto Neri-kuyo (procession of illuminated lanterns) on the night of October 12 is an event known for its grandeur since ancient times, in which over 100 lantern floats parade through the town of Ikegami. On the 12th, the eve of Nichiren Shonin's death on the 13th, numerous Manto processions are held, with over a hundred associations totaling around 3,000 participants parading lively through the streets of Ikegami across approximately 2 kilometers from Ikegami Tokumochi Kaikan to Honmonji Temple. Based on the legend that untimely flowers bloomed when Nichiren Shonin passed away, the lanterns are decorated with artificial paper cherry blossoms (Oeshiki-zakura) and adorned with glowing treasure pagodas. Leading the lanterns are the Matoi (traditional firefighter standards), said to have been started by Edo firefighters, advancing to the light rhythm of Uchiwa-daiko (fan-shaped drums), gongs, and flutes. From 7:00 AM on the 13th, the Special Sermon and Rinmetsudoji Memorial Service is held, where the Rinmetsudoji Bell is rung quietly and solemnly by the chief abbot, following the tradition of Nichisho Shonin ringing the bell upon the founder's passing. During the event, numerous street stalls line the temple grounds and surrounding areas, creating a bustling atmosphere.

Venue

Honmonji-dori Street

Honmonji-dori, 4-chome Ikegami, Ota-ku, Tokyo 146-0082