Experience the Unique Shinshun Walking Event in Hino City: Seven Lucky Gods Tour 2024
The start of the new year is always an exciting time, and in Hino City, Japan, it marks the beginning of a very special tradition. From January 1 to January 7, residents and visitors alike can participate in the captivating
Seven Lucky Gods Walking Tour. During this event, seven temples are opened for the public, allowing individuals to explore Hino City while engaging in a healthy activity of walking.
The Unique Route of the Seven Lucky Gods
The walking tour covers a distance of approximately
13 kilometers, starting from the
Hirayama parking area in front of Hirayama Castle Park Station. Participants will make their way to seven important temples, each dedicated to one of the Seven Lucky Gods of Japanese mythology. The temples included in the tour are:
- - Souinji - Hotei
- - Zenshouji - Daikokuten
- - Enmeiji - Jurōjin
- - Anyouji - Bishamonten
- - Ishidaji - Fukurokuju
- - Shinchouji - Ebisu
- - Kongōji at Takahata Fudoson - Benzaiten
At each temple, participants have an opportunity to receive special stamps on their designated
shikishi (decorative paper) as they experience the rich history and culture associated with each deity.
For children, there are fun activities such as
coloring sheets that they can enjoy while exploring the temples. The colored artworks created by the children will be displayed at the
Tōin under the Five-story Pagoda of Takahata Fudoson from the second Saturday of March to the third Friday of April.
Event Details
The walking event is scheduled to commence on
January 4 (Sunday) and will be canceled in case of inclement weather. Here are the essential details:
- - Registration: From 9:00 AM to 9:30 AM at the JA Tokyo Minami Hirayama Market parking lot.
- - Finish Line: Participants must reach the JA Tokyo Minami Nanishi Branch by 2:30 PM.
- - After checking in at the finish line, they will proceed to Takahata Fudoson Kongōji for further blessings and activities.
- - The event is open to everyone, provided they do not have any constraints on their physical activities.
- - Participation Fee: Free, although participants will need to cover the costs of the shikishi and stamp fees, which are approximately 300 yen each for the stamps.
No Pre-Registration Required
Participants do not need to pre-register for the event. They can simply show up during registration hours and receive their maps. It's important to note that if you need to stop during the walk, you are welcome to do so at any point along the route.
Collect and Compile for Rewards
As an extra incentive, those who collect stamps from all seven temples over seven years can receive commemorative gifts, such as a special
yung-gai mug.
The Seven Lucky Gods Walking Tour is not just an opportunity for physical well-being but also a fantastic way to immerse oneself in the rich cultural traditions of Japan, making it an event you won’t want to miss this New Year!
So put on your walking shoes and get ready to celebrate the New Year with health and happiness as you stroll through the beautiful temples of
Hino City and embrace the spirit of the Seven Lucky Gods. Enjoy the adventure, gather stamps, participate in fun activities, and create wonderful memories this New Year!