Kimiidera Sennichi Mairi, Wakayama City, Wakayama Prefecture

Flow of the course

About this spot

Held every year at Kimiidera from August 9 to 10, the Sennichi Mairi is a special event in which visiting the temple on this day is said to bring the same merit as a thousand days' worth of worship. In 2026, the Ryugu Otohime Pilgrimage Rite (龍宮乙姫行脚の儀) takes place from 8:00pm on August 9, followed by the Fukubo lucky-stick toss (福棒投げ) from 8:30pm. The same 231 stone steps you climbed during the day take on a completely different, dreamlike appearance at night, lit by lanterns. The grounds, bustling with many worshippers, are one of the scenes that symbolize a Wakayama summer night.

Festival details

Tips

The stone steps are hard to see at night, so a flashlight or your smartphone's light will help. Crowds are expected, so hold your child's hand to avoid getting separated. If you plan to join the Fukubo lucky-stick toss, it's a good idea to bring small change.

Best time to visit

Starting at 8:00pm. The period from 8:00 to around 8:30pm, when the Ryugu Otohime Pilgrimage Rite and Fukubo lucky-stick toss take place, is the most exciting time

Access & map

Around Kimiidera, Wakayama City, Wakayama Prefecture