Mitaki-dera Temple Rituals and Nature

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The ceremony usually starts in the late morning on February 3rd, 2026. Visitors can participate in the bean-throwing to invite good luck for the year. Admission to the temple grounds remains free for all guests and travelers. You can experience a very authentic and quiet version of this festival here.

Take the JR Kabe Line to Mitaki Station for the easiest access. The walk from the station to the temple takes about twenty minutes. You will enjoy the fresh air and the sound of rushing water. This location is perfect for those who prefer nature over large crowds.

Check the local Hiroshima winter events 2026 guide for more seasonal ideas. Many people visit the onsite tea house after the ritual ends. You can enjoy hot matcha while looking at the mossy stone statues. It is a wonderful way to spend a cold February morning.

Fudoin Temple Historical Celebrations

Fudoin Temple is a historic site located very close to the city center. Its main hall is a famous National Treasure with a long history. The temple hosts vibrant Setsubun festival events in Hiroshima every single year. Crowds gather here to watch the powerful ritual purification ceremonies.

Expect to see colorful "Oni" or demons during the lively festivities. Local community leaders throw roasted soybeans into the large cheering crowds. You can buy lucky charms and special amulets at the small stalls. These items are said to protect your home from bad luck.

The Astram Line provides quick transport to Fudoin-mae Station from downtown. Most rituals at this temple take place during the early afternoon hours. The atmosphere is energetic and filled with the sounds of traditional chanting. It is a great place to see how locals celebrate together.

Prices for lucky beans usually range from 200 to 500 yen. You should arrive early to get a spot near the front. The demons often interact with the crowd to create a fun show. This temple provides a perfect mix of history and festive excitement.

Daisho-in Temple Island Traditions

Daisho-in Temple sits on the sacred and beautiful island of Miyajima. It is famous for its unique spiritual atmosphere and ancient mountain rituals. This location provides a stunning backdrop for your 2026 winter travel photos. You can reach the island via the Hiroshima Electric Railway ferry service.

The Setsubun ritual here often includes a large and impressive bonfire ceremony. Monks pray for global peace and prosperity while throwing lucky beans. Many visitors enjoy the scenic walk up the many temple stairs. You can see the famous floating torii gate from the temple grounds.

Check the setsubun event schedule for Hiroshima before you plan your ferry trip. The island can get quite busy during the festival weekend. Most ceremonies at Daisho-in begin around 11:00 AM on February 3rd. Give yourself plenty of time to explore the entire complex.

Walking through the temple helps you find inner peace during the winter. You can spin the prayer wheels to receive extra spiritual blessings. The view of the Seto Inland Sea is absolutely breathtaking from here. It is a must-visit spot for any traveler in Hiroshima.

Hiroshima Gokoku Shrine Events

Hiroshima Gokoku Shrine serves as a major hub for large city celebrations. While it is technically a shrine, it hosts vital bean-throwing events. Many local families prefer this central location for its lively festival energy. You can learn more about the Gokoku Shrine bean throwing ceremony online.

The event usually takes place on the afternoon of February 3rd, 2026. Professional sumo wrestlers often join the ritual to throw lucky beans. It is a fantastic place to experience the scale of local culture. Thousands of people attend this event to catch the flying packets.

The shrine is located right next to the historic Hiroshima Castle. You can easily combine your visit with a tour of the castle. The grounds are very spacious and can accommodate very large festival crowds. It is the most popular place for Setsubun in the city.

Security guards help manage the flow of people during the busy ceremony. You will hear people shouting "Oni wa soto, Fuku wa uchi" loudly. This phrase means "Demons out, good luck in" for the new year. It is a powerful and memorable cultural experience for everyone.

Planning Your 2026 Setsubun Visit

Most Setsubun events in Hiroshima occur exactly on February 3rd each year. Ceremonies typically run between 10:00 AM and 3:00 PM at most locations. Entry to temple and shrine grounds is usually free for the public. However, some special seating areas might require a small entrance fee.

Wear warm winter clothing as February weather remains quite chilly in Hiroshima. You should also bring a small bag for catching the beans. Many temples sell "Eho-maki" sushi rolls nearby for a traditional lunch. Visit Dive! Hiroshima for the latest official local travel updates.

Public transportation is the best way to reach these crowded festival sites. Buses and trams run frequently to all the major temple locations. Using a prepaid IC card makes traveling around the city very easy. Avoid driving your own car as parking is extremely limited today.

Try to learn a few basic Japanese phrases before you join the crowd. Being polite and patient will help you enjoy the festival much more. Most locals are very happy to see international tourists joining their traditions. It is a wonderful time to make new friends in Japan.