Kongobuji : Headquarters of Koyasan Shingon Buddhism
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Annual Events and Ceremonies
MANDOKUYO-E, Candle Festival
Date: August 13th
Candle Festival starts from 18:00 at Ichinohashi, the first bridge of Okunoin and Mandokuyo-e ritual is held at the Lantern Hall of Okunoin at 20:00.
From August 13 to 15 is called Obon and our ancesters’ spirits are thought to return their earthly homes. To honor the spirits of our ancestors who have returned to their earhly homes, tens of thousands of candles are placed on both sides of the long approach leading up to Kobo Daishi's Shrine, from Ichinohashi to Gobyobashi, the third bridge in Okunoin creating an immense ribbon of light. The ceremony was originally started by members of the Council of Youth Organizations. Today it has become better known as the "Candle Festival" and gathers many visitors. Local people, pilgrims and visitors offer candles for the benefit of the deceased. Mandokuyo-e ritual is held at the Lantern Hall of Okunoin solemnly at 20:00.
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