#Japan #Tokyo #Kitpas #Daibou Hongyouji #Summer Art

Experience the Fusion of Tradition and Innovation at Daibou Hongyouji

On July 19, 2026, the historic Daibou Hongyouji temple in Ota Ward, Tokyo, will transform into a vibrant art space courtesy of a collaboration with Kitpas, a safe and innovative art material maker. This unique summer event, titled "Let's Have Fun with Kitpas!", promises an exciting intersection of art and community engagement, with enticing workshops tailored for all ages, amid the serene ambiance filled with the melodious sound of 300 wind chimes.

A Historical Approach to Modern Community Engagement

Daibou Hongyouji, a sacred site associated with the death of Nichiren, the founder of the Nichiren sect of Buddhism, is led by Nakano, the chief priest, who is deeply passionate about art. With an aim to make the temple a welcoming place for everyone, Nakano has continued to open up this revered location to the community, allowing art to bridge connections among people. This collaboration with Kitpas emerged as a perfect opportunity to express creativity in a setting often seen as solemn. Also present will be certified trainers from Kitpas supporting new instructors, enhancing the environment of warmth and creativity.

Highlights of the Event

1. Over 300 Wind Chimes Create a Melodic Atmosphere

From late June to the end of August, the temple grounds will resonate with the soothing sounds of 300 wind chimes, enhancing the summer atmosphere. On the event day, special access to areas including the Main Hall and the Sacred Room will be available. Attendees can appreciate the artwork in this hallowed environment.

2. Workshop: Stitching a Robe for the Buddha

Led by Takaki Kato from the Green Tree Thread, this special workshop focuses on creating a robe to be offered to the Buddha in India. Participants will add a stitch with their personal wishes, providing a spiritual and sacred experience reminiscent of the temple's traditions.

3. Window Art as a Major Canvas

In a free-to-participate program, attendees will use Kitpas colors—safe and washable, with rice wax as the main ingredient—to creatively illustrate the temple's large windows, stimulating children's imagination.

Engaging Paid Workshops for Families

The event features various creative workshops incorporating themes like "wind chimes" and "summer patterns." Highlights include:

• - Design Your Own Wind Chime: Create a unique wind chime with drawings for just 500 yen, suitable for ages 3 and up.
• - Summer Scene Using Shimmer: For 1,000 yen, participants can color pre-printed motifs like wind chimes on MDF boards.
• - Colorful Watercolor Coaster Art: Perfect for those aged 6 and up, priced at 500 yen; use water to create unique watercolor effects with Kitpas.
• - Light Filtering Artwork: Creating beautiful art that looks like stained glass by choosing from designs like wind chimes or ice cream, offered at 600 yen.
• - Personalized Good Luck Cards: Craft a special card for good fortune, aligning with the most auspicious day of the year, priced at 1,000 yen for high school students and above.

Event Details

• - Event Name: Let's Have Fun with Kitpas! (Summer Workshop at the Temple)
• - Date and Time: July 19, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM
• - Venue: Daibou Hongyouji, 2-10-5 Ikegami, Ota City, Tokyo 146-0082
• - Entry Fee: Free (participation in workshops may incur a fee)
• - Organizer: Daibou Hongyouji
• - Cooperation: Nihon Rika Kogyo Co., Ltd.

Access and Further Information

The temple is conveniently accessible from Ikegami Station and Nishi-Magome Station, both within a 10-minute walk. Attendees are advised to wear clothes that can get dirty.

For inquiries, please contact Daibou Hongyouji at 03-3752-0155 or visit Daibou Hongyouji Contact.