11.22 SUN

Chokoji Temple Doll Memorial Goma Fire Rite

Chokoji Temple (Omihachiman, Shiga)

Dates & time
November 22, 2026 (Sun) 10:00–15:00 (doll memorial service from 12:00)
Price & booking
Doll memorial fee: about ¥3,000 per mandarin-orange-size box (about 90 cm in total of three sides) Pack dolls in a box and notify the temple in advance via the form on its website, then bring them or send them by post. On the day, bring them by the end of the morning.
Venue & access
Chokoji Temple (Omihachiman, Shiga) About 5 minutes on foot from Musa Station on the Ohmi Railway (change at JR Omihachiman Station). By car, about 15 minutes from Ryuo IC or Gamo IC on the Meishin Expressway. On the day, a temporary car park in a different spot from usual is used, with staff directing cars.

Why You Should Visit

Chokoji, a Koyasan Shingon temple in Omihachiman said to have been founded by Prince Shotoku, holds its annual doll memorial festival on the fourth Sunday of November. A saito goma fire rite is performed in the temple grounds, and the memorial service for dolls begins at noon. It is also the one day of the year when the temple's mandala is displayed in the main hall, with a special goshuin stamp and a small market on site. Dolls, stuffed toys and keepsakes such as photos are accepted regardless of religious affiliation, so it suits anyone who wants to send off treasured items properly before letting them go.

NOTE

Accepted items

  • Dolls and stuffed toys you no longer use
  • Keepsakes such as photos
  • Any religious affiliation is welcome

※Enquiries: Chokoji Temple 0748-37-7743

出典: 長光寺公式サイト

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FAQ

How much is the memorial fee?
About ¥3,000 per mandarin-orange-size box (about 90 cm in total of three sides).
By what time should I bring dolls on the day?
Bring them by the end of the morning, after notifying the temple via the form on its website. You can also send them by post.
Is there parking?
A temporary car park is used on the day. It is in a different spot from usual, so follow the staff on site.