Zenko-ji prepares for 2027 Gokaicho ritual in Nagano

Preparations are underway for the 2027 Zenko-ji Gokaicho, a special Buddhist ritual held once every seven years at Zenko-ji temple in Nagano. During this event, the 'Maedachi Honzon'—a substitute for the temple's secret main Buddha—is displayed in the main hall.

To support the upcoming event, the temple lodging Rengein has begun accepting reservations for the period spanning April 4 to June 19, 2027. The lodging aims to provide a space for pilgrims to experience the quietude of the temple grounds outside of peak daytime hours.

In anticipation of the ritual, a 'Zenko-ji Trivia' educational event was recently held in Nagano. The session, led by monks, provided approximately 90 attendees with insights into temple history, the significance of the ritual, and the meaning behind the different colors of monks' robes.