Hiwatari Shiki 火渡り式
- Published on : 06/02/2013
- by : M.M.
- Youtube
Ember wishes
Why not take advantage of a visit to the sacred island of Miyajima to invoke good health and happiness for oneself and loved ones? The Daishoin Buddhist Temple Festival always leaves a fond memory with its participants.
Twice a year, a special religious ritual takes place on the very touristy island of Miyajima. The Shingon Buddhist Sect, which has many temples across Japan and even a school in Koyasan , is organizing Hiwatari Shiki at Daishoin Temple. This ceremony dates from the Jogan era (832-909).
Temples of the Shingon sect:
Eleven o'clock in the morning, the sun is approaching its zenith. The faithful pile up green cypress branches in the middle of the courtyard. The ceremony begins with the procession of the cleansing offerings to the altar, accompanied by the chanting of the Buddhist sutras. Two monks come forward, grab their bow and each shoot seven arrows above their hairless heads. The crowd rushes and jostles to catch up with the celestial features before they get stuck in the ground.
The powerful breath of the conch players brings everyone calm. It is one o'clock, a torch brings the eternal flame of the Reika-do pavilion on Mount Misen and sets the pile of bundles ablaze. Thick white smoke announces the event that is preparing for festival-goers.
An hour later, at 2 p.m., the embers are reduced, the senior monk comes forward. He crosses the blaze barefoot chanting prayers. Visitors can do the same on request ... and take their turn in the spotlight.
Guided tour of Daishoin temple:
Address, timetable & access
Address
Phone
+81 (0)82 9440111Timetable
15 minute walk from the ferry pier, take the path on the leftPrice
freeAccess
April 15 and November 15 from 11 a.m.
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