Hase-dera Temple: New Year's Eve Bell Ringing & Ten-Thousand Lantern Prayer Service

About this event

At Hase-dera Temple in Kamakura, the Joya no Kane and Mando Kigankai (New Year's Eve Bell & Ten-Thousand Lantern Prayer Service) will be held from New Year's Eve night into New Year's Day. At 23:00 on New Year's Eve, the main gate reopens, and admission is free until 8:00 the following morning. Simultaneously with the gate reopening, approximately 6,000 prayer candles dedicated with worshippers' wishes over the past year are lit in Sakura Square, spreading a fantastical sight. From around 23:45, the Joya-e service takes place at the bell tower, after which the New Year's Eve bell is struck. From 0:00 on New Year's Day, the Shusho-e service—the first Buddhist memorial service of the new year—is conducted at the Kannon-do hall, followed by monks chanting sutras and praying before the candles. Prayer candles come in white cups, and you can dedicate them by writing your name and wish on the side. They can be offered prior to year-end, and a limited quantity will also be distributed on New Year's Eve (voluntary donation of 500 yen per prayer). To ring the New Year's Eve bell, advance application via return postcard arriving by November 30 is typically required. Since traffic restrictions will be in effect, using public transportation is recommended. In case of rain or strong winds, the event may be postponed to the evening of one of the first three days of the new year. This event offers a special experience to greet the new year in tranquility.

Venue

Hase-dera Temple

3-11-2 Hase, Kamakura, Kanagawa 248-0016