"Flower Festival at Hōjō-ji Temple on April 20 (Monday) - A Kannon deity festival that has been passed down for about 1200 years."

Traditional events that have been passed down for generations bring a sense of calm to people's hearts.

At Houtouji Temple in Tsurajima-cho, there is a festival held on the 4th day of the 3rd month of the lunar calendar, commonly known as "Hana no Yokka". This is a Kannon festival that has been celebrated for about 1200 years since the Heian period.

The "Hana no Yokka" in 2026 will be held on April 20 (Monday).

What is Houtouji Temple's Hana no Yokka

Hana no Yokka at Houtouji Temple is a traditional Kannon festival held every year on the 4th day of the 3rd month of the lunar calendar.
The following rituals will be conducted in the main hall.

• 10:00 AM: Eleven-faced Kannon ritual
• 1:00 PM & 3:00 PM: Goma prayer

Additionally, a tea ceremony will be held at the guest hall garden, Matsuseki. Enjoy a moment of relaxation with matcha amidst the fresh greenery.

Goma (fire) prayer
This is a ritual performed in temples of the Shingon and Tendai sects, where the flames of Goma are lit in front of the main deity, such as Fudo Myoo, and wishes (Goma-ki) are burned to purify worldly desires and pray for the fulfillment of various wishes and protection from calamities.

Interview with the person in charge

I spoke with Ms. Kazuko Sato, the person in charge, about "Hana no Yokka".

Please tell us about the highlights and points of interest this time.

Sato (no honorifics)

In addition to the popular plant market and stalls every year, this time there will be a booth offering "stone-ground coffee beans roasted with stone" from a local stone shop, and "welfare nails" from Kurashiki Welfare Nails.

We will deliver a moment that brightens your fingertips and heart with delicious coffee and hand-painted nail art and colors.

Please give a message to the readers.

Person in charge

This festival allows you to spend a leisurely time in the soft spring air. Even if you have a short time, please feel free to drop by and enjoy.

Tea ceremony tickets are also available on the day (500 yen). If you're lucky, you might be able to enjoy a cup prepared by the resident priest, Yuugen.

Conclusion

This year, the cherry blossoms have already fallen, but the gentle spring climate is perfect for calming the heart.

Please do go out and visit.

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