Suiban Nenbutsu Mizuguchi

A Buddhist observance passed down in the Mizuguchi area of Oguno, Hinode Town, Tokyo, in which the nenbutsu is chanted to the sound of bells and drums. Locally called “Kanehari Nenbutsu,” it is also designated as a cultural property of Tokyo.

About Suiban Nenbutsu Mizuguchi

Suiban Nenbutsu Mizuguchi is a Buddhist observance performed at Saitokuji Temple in the Mizuguchi area of Oguno, Hinode Town.

Locally, it is called “Kanehari Nenbutsu.” Participants strike bells and drums while chanting the nenbutsu to a distinctive melody.

This tradition, descended from the Koshiki Nenbutsu tradition dating back to the Heian period, has been passed down in the community.

Source: 歴史・文化大久野地区東部（山間部から丘陵部） | 日の出町ホームページ

Festival highlights

The highlight is the distinctive performance of chanting the nenbutsu to the sound of bells and drums.

Unlike a typical festival procession or competition, its character lies in the atmosphere of a Buddhist observance created through music and group chanting.

As a traditional event designated as a cultural property of Tokyo, it continues to convey the forms of faith and performing arts rooted in the local community.

Source: 水口の鉦はり念仏【アソビュー！】

A traditional Mizuguchi observance combining nenbutsu chants with the resonant sounds of bells and drums

What to expect

The event is performed in conjunction with the festival day at Saitokuji Temple.

The basic sequence is to strike bells and drums and chant the nenbutsu to their sound in a distinctive melody.

Details such as the exact start time, order of proceedings, and whether there are moments when visitors can participate should be confirmed in the event information provided at the time.

Location and access

Venue and address: Saitokuji Temple (6369 Oguno, Hinode Town, Nishitama District, Tokyo)
Train and bus: It is a 6-minute bus ride from JR Musashi-Itsukaichi Station, followed by a 25-minute walk from Kayakubo bus stop.

Address 6369 Oguno, Hinode Town, Nishitama District, Tokyo

Open in Google Maps

Travel by taxi PRFind a taxi or private transfer for your journey.Find a taxi on Kiwitaxi Long-distance buses are another option PRFind routes and fares from your departure point to your destination.Find highway buses on Rakuten Travel

Dates and season

Season: Every year, on a Sunday close to the old Bon season
Frequency: Every year

Accommodation and hotels PR

Prices and availability are current at the time of retrieval. For multi-night stays, only the first night’s price is shown. Confirm the final price and directions to the venue with the booking provider. Select your dates again when using the area search link. Search area: within 3 km of Central Tokyo Metropolis / Hinode Town (the search is not centered on the festival venue)

Supported by Rakuten Developers

Tips for your visit

As the performance takes place on a Sunday close to the old Bon season, it is a good idea to check the date and performance time for the current year before visiting.

The venue is Saitokuji Temple, where the nenbutsu is performed with bells and drums.

As this is an event held at a temple, it is important to watch quietly and avoid disturbing the or worshippers.

Origins and History of Suiban Nenbutsu Mizuguchi

Suiban Nenbutsu is considered a Buddhist observance descended from the Koshiki Nenbutsu tradition, which dates back to the Heian period.

In Mizuguchi, this tradition has been passed down as “Kanehari Nenbutsu” and is performed at Saitokuji on a Sunday close to the old Bon season.

It remains designated as a cultural property of Tokyo and is an event that conveys the local culture of Hinode Town.

Official information

The Hinode Town website introduces Suiban Nenbutsu in the Mizuguchi area, including its characteristics and when it is performed, under “History and Culture: Eastern Oguno District (Mountainous to Hilly Areas).”