Main events and schedule
During the unveiling of the main image of Zenkoji Temple in 2027, various ceremonies and events will be held, from the ceremony for receiving the memorial pillar to the grand memorial service that marks the beginning and end of the unveiling.
Ekobashira Ukeireshiki
Turning column acceptance type
March 28, 2027 (Sunday) In front of the main hall
This ceremony marks the donation of the memorial pillar, a symbol of the Gokaicho (public unveiling of the temple's main hall), from Matsushiro-machi in Nagano City to Zenkoji Temple. Due to the deep involvement of the Matsushiro domain in the reconstruction of the current main hall, the donation of the memorial pillar has been passed down for over 300 years. With the Gokaicho just around the corner, this important pillar is welcomed to Zenkoji Temple.
Ekobashira Konryuushiki
Turning pillar erection ceremony
April 2, 2027 (Friday) In front of the main hall
This ceremony involves the erection of a memorial pillar donated from Matsushiro in front of the main hall. During the period of the temple's public unveiling, the memorial pillar will be connected to the "rope of goodness" extending from the right hand of the Amida Buddha, the principal image of worship. On this day, the memorial pillar, which symbolizes the public unveiling and connects worshippers with the Buddha, will be erected in front of the main hall.
Maeda Chihonzon Gosenzashiki
Relocation Ceremony of the Main Buddha Image
Saturday, April 3, 2027 Main Hall
People dressed in white carry the shrine containing the principal image of worship from the treasure house to the main hall.
Inside the main hall, the head priest moves the shrine to the inner sanctuary, welcoming the principal image of worship in preparation for the public unveiling that will begin the following day.
Kaibyakudaihouyou
Founder's Great Memorial Service
Sunday, April 4, 2027 Main Hall
On the first day of the public unveiling, the shrine containing the main image of Buddha is opened during the morning service, allowing visitors to pay their respects to the image.
Following this, a grand opening ceremony is held by the chief priests of the Tendai and Jodo sects who protect Zenkoji Temple, marking the start of the 77-day public unveiling.
Chunichi Teigi Daihoyo
Chunichi Gardeni Memorial Service
Tendai sect: April 24, 2027 (Saturday)
Jodo sect: May 8, 2027 (Saturday) in front of the main hall
Led by O-Masako, a procession of priests in resplendent robes moves forward, accompanied by a flurry of colorful flower petals. This
grand Buddhist ceremony, representative of the opening of the temple, is performed by both the Tendai and Jodo sects in front of the memorial pillars, and is a blend of solemnity and splendor.
Stingy
Final Memorial Service
June 19, 2027 (Saturday) Main Hall
This is a grand ceremony that marks the end of the 77-day public viewing of the sacred image.
With many worshippers watching, the doors of the shrine containing the main image are closed, and the public viewing comes to an end.
Maedachi Honzon Gokanzashiki
Maedatehonzon return ceremony
June 20, 2027 (Sunday) Main Hall
The principal image of worship, which had been housed in the main hall, is returned to the treasure house. This ceremony concludes the public viewing of the sacred image and marks its return to its proper place in the temple.
*Event dates, times, venues, and participation methods are subject to change. The latest information will be posted on this website as it becomes available.