Shikai Annon Memorial Service / Kairyuoji Temple
Area
Ceremony aims to pray for world's peace and tranquility.
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Kairyuoji is closely associated with prayers for safe voyages and maritime safety, enshrining the Dragon King (Ryuo), a deity believed to control water and weather. The Shikai Annon Hoyo (Four Seas Peace Ceremony) aims to pray for peace and tranquility throughout the world. The phrase "Shikai Annon" literally translates to "peace across the four seas," symbolizing the hope for global harmony and the well-being of all people.
The Shikai Annon Ceremony embodies this legacy by invoking prayers for the safety of the seas, favorable weather, and peaceful coexistence among all nations and peoples. The ritual includes sutra chanting, offerings, and prayers led by the temple’s priests, and visitors and worshippers are also welcome to join.
This is the most significant memorial service at the temple. It takes place in the third month of the lunar calendar (currently April) to honor the return of the first chief priest, Genbo, to Heijo Palace from the Tang Dynasty.
- Kairyuoji Temple
- Kairyuoji Temple was established in 731 by Empress Komyo t…
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General Information
- Event period
- Friday, April 18, 2026
Memorial service from 15:00 - Event venue
- Kairyuoji Temple
- Address
- 897 Hokkeji-Kitamachi, Nara City, Nara, 630-8001
- Access
- From JR Nara Station or Kintetsu Nara Station, take a 14-minute bus ride to Saidaiji Station or the Air Self-Defense Force. Get off at "Hokkeji-mae" and walk for 1 minute.
Alternatively, from Kintetsu Yamato-Saidaiji Station, take a 10-minute bus ride to JR Nara Station, get off at "Hokkeji-mae," and walk for 1 minute. - Website
