KYOTO, RAKUSAI (ADASHINO NEMBUTSU-JI Temple)

X Aug '97 On the evenings of Aug.23rd and 24th every year, more than 1000 candles have been offered to the stone Buddhas at ADASHINO NEMBUTSU-JI Temple. This temple, said to be founded by priest KUKAI (KOBO DAISHI), is located at the northern part of SAGANO area. On the day of SENTO-KUYO, many lanterns ,which teach us the Buddhist preach, are laid down in the precincts. In the darkness, these lanterns and bamboo candlestands lead us to the Pure Land Paradise. More than 8,000 sone Buddha and stone sculpture are enshrined near the stone stupa. There are already no record on these stone Buddha and stone sculpture. And an image of MIZUKO-JIZO (to repose of the souls of unborn children) is also dedicated. SENTO-KUYO, the ceremony of candles service, starts from 6:00 p.m. on Aug. 23rd and 24th every year. These stone Buddhas are floating in more than 1,000 candles light. As the time goes on, candle light coves over human beings. The darkness of summer night and the waves of candle light take us to a spiritual home. You can find such pretty silk cocoon dools just near ADASHINO-NEMBUTU-JI Temple!