[December Exclusive] Fulfilling Wishes at Kohfukuji Temple – Crafting Amulets and Gomagi Prayer Ritual Experience

At Kofuku-ji Temple located in Nara City, New York-born designer Zain and Ryukai Kirimura, a monk at Jurin-in Temple, will offer a special experience of traditional Japanese culture and spirit.

In this event, you will create your own personalized “Omamori” protective amulet, going through each step of the process with your feelings in mind. “Omamori” have long been an object of faith in Japan and are believed to bring good luck when carried, such as warding off disasters and inviting good fortune.
This special experience will allow you to calm your mind and tune your body while learning ancient Japanese beliefs and techniques.

Then, you will focus your mind and copy the sacred scripts known as “Bonji”, which are based on the ancient Indian Sanskrit language and have great significance in Buddhism. The sacred scripts copied onto paper will then be placed inside the “Omamori” to serve as a hidden supporting force.
This experience provides a sense of peace and solace away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. In addition to copying sacred scripts, you can also engage in drawing and coloring a portrait of Fudo Myo-o (Acala), a prominent figure in Buddhism, which can be placed inside your amulet for additional blessings.

Furthermore, participants will write their wishes on a “Gomagi” wooden prayer stick, which will then be blessed by the monks to ensure all prayers are heard.
Taking part in this experience is an opportunity to think about the wishes and hopes in your heart and envision a brighter future.

Kohfukuji Temple is a historic temple founded in 710 when the capital of Nara was established. As the main temple of the Hosso sect of Buddhism, many national ceremonies have been held at Kohfukuji since the Nara period (710-794), and the temple has been deeply involved in the culture and history of the ancient capital of Nara. The temple preserves many masterpieces of Buddhist art, including the Ashura statue, a national treasure which tells the history of Buddhism in Japan. The Chukondo (Central Golden Hall), in particular, is one of the central buildings of Kohfukuji Temple and houses many exquisite Buddhist statues as well as magnificent architecture. In addition, its splendid five-story pagoda and charming gardens offer visitors beautiful scenery throughout the four seasons, symbolizing the harmony between Nara's history and nature.

Explore the wonders of Kohfukuji Temple with a local interpreter guide, using the Kohfukuji Temple Tourist Visual Guide to visit iconic landmarkslike the "Nan-endo" Southern Round Hall, Three-story Pagoda, and "Chukondo" Central Golden Hall. Gain insights into their historical and cultural significance through detailed explanations.
In addition to the omamori amulet-making workshop, we also offer a meditation session in the usually closed Tokondo Hall. Guided by a monk, this is a rare opportunity to experience something truly special in a sacred setting.

For applications, click here.

〇 Thein Min Swe, Myanmar
Japan is a very unique country, and I think there are many cultural activities to experience. Making charms is something that everyone should experience to make their time in Japan more meaningful.

〇 Kimie, Brazil
It's an experience I would recommend to anyone who loves knowledge about culture.