Domyoji Tenmangu Usokae Festival 2027

Why You Should Visit

Held on 25 January, the first Tenjin day of the year, this ritual at Domyoji Tenmangu is a charm against misfortune. Priests spend a year hand-carving small wooden bullfinch figures called usodori, which are handed to worshippers who then swap their sealed bags with each other while calling out 'kaemasho'. When the drum sounds, bags are opened and a few lucky people find gold or silver birds. The custom recalls a legend of bullfinches saving Sugawara no Michizane from a swarm of bees. The exchange takes place at 11:00 and 15:00, and an antique market fills the grounds the same day.

Essentials

location: Domyoji Tenmangu Shrine grounds
period: January 25, 2027 (Mon)
Time: 9:00–16:00 (Usokae ritual at 11:00 and 15:00) (typical hours; 2027 schedule to be confirmed by the shrine)
cost: Free to attend. Usodori bird figure: 500 yen offering (available on the day only, no mail order)
Links: Official Website
Kobe · Gluten-free
access: About 3 minutes on foot from Domyoji Station on the Kintetsu Minami-Osaka Line. By car, about 5 minutes from Fujiidera IC on the Nishi-Meihan Expressway.
TAGS

出典: 道明寺天満宮公式サイト（時刻・料金は公式掲載の例年値）

FAQ

How do I take part in the bird exchange?

Arrive before the ritual time (11:00 or 15:00), join the line and receive your bird in turn. After the swapping, open your bag when the drum sounds. Birds are also available outside the ritual times.

Are the plum blossoms out yet?

The plum garden usually opens in early February, and on 25 January only the earliest trees are starting to bloom. Peak season is late February to early March.

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