
Tochigi Tochigi
January 3, 2026 (Saturday) <Held annually on the same date>
■ Myoken Shrine Festival (Shinju): 9:00〜10:00
■ Gohan Ceremony: 10:00〜11:30
Hokkouji Gohan Ceremony (Hokkouji no Gohanshiki)
発光路の強飯式(ほっこうじのごうはんしき)
The Hokkouji's Gohan ceremony held at Nikko San Rinnoji Temple in Tochigi Prefecture is a nationally designated Important Intangible Folk Cultural Asset. The charm of the festival lies in the humorous yet solemn ritual where participants are forced to eat a large serving of rice. After being purified at Myoken Shrine, participants gather at the Hakkouji Community Center to partake in the traditional event.
This event is held at the Hakkouji Community Center located in Kamikasuwo District, Kanuma City, offering a valuable opportunity to experience ancient traditions amidst the magnificent nature. One of the key features is the ritual of eating symbolic large servings of rice, surrounded by humor and laughter throughout.
Due to the limited themes and participation slots, advance registration is recommended. Additionally, be sure not to miss the sale of local handmade dishes and specialty products.
Having read this far, we recommend visiting with friends or family to fully enjoy interacting with the locals and experiencing the unique traditional culture of Japan that cannot be found elsewhere.
Place:Hakkouji Community Center (Cultural Heritage Preservation Center)
Transportation:About 45 minutes from Tohoku Expressway Tochigi IC About 50 minutes from Tohoku Expressway Kanuma IC
Contact:0289-60-2507
https://kanuma-kanko.jp/purpose/%e7%99%ba%e5%85%89%e8%b7%af%e3%81%ae%e5%bc%b7%e9%a3%af%e5%bc%8f/