EVENT

Ota Ward Festival

Ikegami Honmon-ji Oeshiki

Oeshiki at Ikegami Honmon-ji

At Ikegami Honmon-ji, a grand head temple of the Nichiren school, the Buddhist memorial service “Oeshiki(おえしき)” will be held to mark the anniversary of Saint Nichiren’s passing. 2026 marks the 745th memorial of the founder.
In addition to services and Dharma talks, events include the “Mando Neri Kuyo” lantern procession that colors the streets of Ikegami, and the “Rinmetsudoji” service commemorating Nichiren’s passing. This is an opportunity to experience a traditional Buddhist observance at sacred sites connected to Saint Nichiren.

Highlights of Oeshiki

Mando Neri Kuyo through the streets of Ikegami

On October 12, the Mando procession will proceed about 2 kilometers from the Ikegami Tokumochi Kaikan to Ikegami Honmon-ji.

Hundreds of Mando lanterns borne by lay associations from across Japan parade through Ikegami to the sounds of matoi, uchiwa-daiko, kane gongs, and flutes. The lanterns adorned with paper flowers recall the legend that, at the time of Saint Nichiren’s passing, a cherry tree in the garden bloomed out of season.

Solemn Rinmetsudoji service

From 7:00 a.m. on October 13, the “Special Sermon and Rinmetsudoji Service” will be held.

Following the bell said to have been struck by Saint Nisshō at the moment of Nichiren’s passing, the chief abbot of Ikegami Honmon-ji quietly tolls the “Rinmetsudoji Bell.”

Services, Dharma talks, and group visits

During the Oeshiki period, various services and Dharma talks are offered. On October 12 at 10:00 a.m., the “Founder’s Robe-Changing Service,” in which Saint Nichiren’s garments are changed from summer to winter, is conducted; at 2:00 p.m., the “Founder’s Gratitude Vigil Service” is observed.

From the 12th, the daimoku resonates in the Great Hall as many pilgrims and group visitors arrive from across the country.

Live streaming available

万灯練供養 and 臨滅度時法要 are scheduled to be live-streamed on the internet. Those who find it difficult to visit in person can watch the events via the official website.

Notes for visiting

During the Oeshiki period, traffic restrictions will be in place around Ikegami Honmon-ji and Ikegami Station. In addition to restrictions on vehicle entry and passage, visitors are advised to refrain from visiting by bicycle.
Furthermore, within the Honmon-ji precincts and the Mando procession area, the use of drones and other remotely operated flying objects is prohibited. As traffic restrictions and guidance may change, please follow the instructions of local police officers and guides on site.

  • ※For details on event times, traffic restrictions, live streaming, etc., please check the official website before your visit.
  • ※Currently, renovation work on the Great Hall is underway in connection with the 750th memorial project for Saint Nichiren.
Period 2026.10.11–10.13
Time Manto Neri Kuyo
October 12 (Mon) 18:00–around 23:00
Rinmetsudoji Hoyo
October 13 (Tue) 7:00–around 8:30
Location Ikegami Honmon-ji, the area from Ikegami Tokumochi Kaikan to Ikegami Honmon-ji
Address 〒146-8576 東京都大田区池上1-1-1
Participation Fee Free
Contact Ikegami Honmon-ji
Related Website https://honmonji.jp/oeshiki/

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