On December 7, 2023, the ''heavy snowfall'' of the 24 solar terms, ''daikon-daki'' to ward off illness began at Senbon Shakado (Daihoonji) in Kamigyo Ward, Kyoto City. Worshipers munched on hot daikon radish soaked in soy sauce and soup stock, praying for good health.
It is said that the Kamakura period monk Jizen wrote Sanskrit characters on the radish and served it to worshipers in conjunction with the Jodo-e, the day when Buddha attained enlightenment. It is said to have originated from Even today, the chief priest Ryonyo Kikuiri writes Sanskrit characters on each radish used as an ingredient, praying for good health. This year, they prepared 5,000 bottles, the same number as before the coronavirus outbreak.
On this day, four large pots approximately one meter in diameter were placed in front of the main hall of the National Treasure, and daikon radish and fried tofu were simmered one after another. A 78-year-old woman from Ibaraki City, Osaka Prefecture, said, ''She has experienced a serious illness, so she started eating daikon radish here last year in hopes of staying healthy.The horse mackerel sticks in and is delicious.'' she said with a smile.
