1.23 SAT · 8:00〜16:00

Daianji Konin-e (Sasazake Festival)

Daianji Temple

Dates & time
January 23, 2027 (Sat) 8:00〜16:00
cost
Fees for the sasazake and prayers are not listed officially.
Venue & access
Daianji Temple From JR Nara or Kintetsu Nara Station, take a bus bound for Daianji, Sharp-mae or Shiratsuchi-cho to the Daianji stop, then walk 10 min. Free parking is available for cars (large buses enter from the Daianji-minami intersection).

There are 3 car parks within a 12-minute walk of Daianji Temple. The map shows each with its walking time.

Facility data comes from OpenStreetMap. It does not include opening hours, fees or availability.

Why You Should Visit

Held every year on January 23 at Daianji Temple in Nara City, this rite traces back to the memorial service Emperor Kanmu held here, with his court officials, on the first anniversary of the death of his father, Emperor Konin. The ceremony is set among fresh green bamboo, and sasazake, sake served in bamboo and associated with Emperor Konin, is offered to visitors. Widely known as the sasazake that wards off cancer, it draws many people praying for good health. A chance to see a winter tradition at one of Nara's oldest temples.

NOTE

Sasazake festivals twice a year:

  • January 23, Konin-e: sasazake offered during a ceremony set among green bamboo
  • June 23, Take Kuyo Summer Sasazake Festival: based on an old Chinese tradition, with sasazake served all day and prayers to ward off cancer

Enquiries: Daianji Temple 0742-61-6312

出典: 大安寺 公式サイト

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FAQ

When is Konin-e held each year?
Every year on January 23. In 2027 it falls on a Saturday.
Is there a sasazake event in summer too?
Yes. The Take Kuyo Summer Sasazake Festival is held on June 23, with sasazake served all day and prayers to ward off cancer.
Can I go by car?
Yes, there is free parking. Large buses can only enter from the Daianji-minami intersection.