Osu Kannon Sayo-shi Fire Festival: Purify and Protect in 2025 π₯
Ready for a fresh start in 2025? Join the Osu Kannon Sayo-shi Fire Festival on January 13th and experience the powerful symbolism of cleansing and renewal. This unique event offers you the chance to release last year’s burdens and invite blessings for the year ahead.
At the heart of the festival lies the sacred fire, consuming ofuda (Shinto talismans), omamori (amulets), shimenawa (sacred rice straw rope), and other New Year’s decorations. By consigning these items to the flames, you symbolically purify your spirit and prepare for a brighter future.
For just 1,000 yen, you can offer a Dai Gomagi (large prayer stick) and receive a Kasubo-go ofuda, a special talisman to protect your home from fire. Your Dai Gomagi donation supports prayers for family safety, good health, and business prosperity throughout the year. You’re welcome to bring omamori and ofuda from other temples to be burned alongside your Dai Gomagi donation.
What distinguishes this event from similar fire ceremonies is its location at the historic Osu Kannon Temple, a site of spiritual significance since 1617. This adds a unique layer of cultural depth to the symbolic act of purification.
Event Details:
- Date: Monday, January 13, 2025 (National Holiday)
- Time: Memorial service and fire lighting begin at 2:30 PM
- Venue: Osu Kannon Temple
- Fee: 1,000 yen per Dai Gomagi prayer stick
- Contact: Osu Kannon Temple (Tel: 052-231-6525)
- Access: A short 3-minute walk from Exit 2 of Osu Kannon Station on the Tsurumai Subway Line
About Osu Kannon (Shinpukuji Hozoin Temple):
Osu Kannon, formally Kitanozan Shinpukuji Hozoin, is a Shingon sect Buddhist temple beloved by locals. Originally situated in Osu, Mino Province, it was moved to its present location by Ieyasu in 1617. Rebuilt in 1970 after wartime destruction, the main hall stands as a testament to resilience. The temple also houses the Osu Library, home to approximately 15,000 books, including a national treasure: a copy of the Kojiki. Don’t miss the antique market held on the 18th and 28th of each month!
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About Osu Kannon Temple
Osu Kannon is a Buddhist temple situated in Nagoya, Japan. It has a long history, originally built in the 14th century in Gifu and relocated to Nagoya in the 17th century by Tokugawa Ieyasu. The temple is dedicated to Kannon, the deity of mercy, and is an important spiritual site for locals and visitors.
The temple’s architecture features a large roof and wooden structures that complement the urban surroundings. Notable elements include its entrance gate and the central hall with a statue of Kannon. The temple grounds are lively, hosting events and a monthly flea market that facilitate cultural exchanges.
Osu Kannon provides a peaceful retreat in the city, allowing for reflection and spiritual growth. It helps preserve local traditions and practices, such as the annual Sayo-shi Fire Festival, which involves rituals aimed at spiritual purification and home protection.
