Omizutori (お水取り), formally known as Shuni-e (修二会), is an annual Buddhist event held at Todaiji Temple‘s Nigatsudo (二月堂) in Nara, Japan. The event spans two weeks in early March, culminating in a series of dramatic ceremonies and rituals performed by the temple’s monks.
The most anticipated event of Omizutori is the “Otaimatsu” (お松明) ceremony, held on the evenings of March 12th and 14th. During the ceremony, giant torches, measuring up to 8 meters in length and weighing as much as 40 kilograms, are set ablaze and swung from the balcony of the Nigatsudo Hall. The sparks and embers that rain down from the torches are believed to have purifying powers and bring good luck to those who witness them.
The Omizutori festival dates back over 1,250 years and is considered one of the oldest and most important Buddhist events in Japan. It originated in the Nara period as a repentance ceremony to cleanse impurities and pray for peace and prosperity. Today, it remains a significant religious and cultural event, offering visitors a unique opportunity to witness ancient rituals and experience traditional Japanese culture.
In addition to the Otaimatsu ceremony, the Shuni-e period also includes several other rituals, such as the drawing of sacred water from a well beneath the Nigatsudo Hall on the morning of March 13th. This “omizutori” ritual, from which the festival derives its popular name, is believed to have healing properties.
Throughout the two weeks of Shuni-e, the Nigatsudo Hall is illuminated with lanterns, creating a mystical atmosphere. Visitors can participate in the event by offering incense and prayers, or simply by observing the ancient rituals and ceremonies.
Details
| Date | March 1st – 14th every year |
| Location | Todaiji Temple |
| Official Website | https://www.todaiji.or.jp/annual/event/shunie/omizutori/ |
