On July 9 and 10, 2023, the serene grounds of the Senso-ji Temple in Tokyo’s Asakusa Area will spring to life with the annual “Hozuki Market.”
The Hozuki Market coincides with an auspicious day called “Shimanrokusen Nichi,” believed to bring the same blessings as visiting the temple continuously for 46,000 days or about 126 years.
A great return on your spiritual investment for the smart worshipper!
This tradition traces its roots back to the Edo period, where the fervor to be the first to pray at the temple on July 10 grew so much that the temple became crowded from the previous day, July 9.
Hozuki Market:
Born from this tradition, the Hozuki Market, which began in the Minato ward’s Atago Shrine, has since spread to Sensoji Temple in Asakusa. Now, the Hozuki Market at Sensoji is one of the most recognized versions of the event.
On the day, around 100 stalls selling hozuki (Chinese lantern plants) fill the temple grounds, bustling with visitors from early morning till late at night.
Soothing Sounds of Edo-style Wind Bells
Listen out for the melodious sound of Edo-style wind bells attached to the hozuki pots, adding a soothing ambiance to the bustling festival, and enhancing the experience of the summer festival in the downtown area of Asakusa.
Hozuki and Other Offerings
Typically, a potted hozuki with a wind bell set is available for around 2,500 yen. The popular “branch hozuki” can be purchased for around 1,500 yen. During the Shimanrokusen Nichi days, you can also avail of the special prayer amulet “Kifuda” and the triangular protective amulet “Kaminariyokefuda,” which are hugely popular among the attendees.
Other Concurrent Events: Ueno’s Iriya Asagao Matsuri
Not far from Asakusa, Ueno’s Iriya Kishimojin hosts the Iriya Asagao Matsuri or Morning Glory Festival from July 6 to July 8, after a hiatus of four years. The largest morning glory market in Japan, it features 60-morning glory vendors and 90 stalls, bustling with people from the early morning hours.
Event Details: When and Where
- Event: Sensoji Temple “Shimanrokusen Nichi & Hozuki Market”
- Dates: July 9, 2023 (Sunday) – July 10, 2023 (Monday)
- Time: 8:00 am to around 9:00 pm
- Location: Sensoji Temple
- Address: 2-3-1 Asakusa, Taito, Tokyo
- Nearest stations: Asakusa Station on Tokyo Metro Ginza Line (5-minute walk), Asakusa Station on Tobu Skytree Line (5-minute walk), Asakusa Station on Toei Asakusa Line (7-minute walk), Asakusa Station on Tsukuba Express Line (5-minute walk).
