Kanchu-takuhatsu（Cold weather religious mendicancy） training began on January 8, 2024 at Shogoin, the head temple of the Shugen sect of Buddhism (Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City). Monks and believers dressed as yamabushi went around the city making the sound of conch shells and praying for good health. A portion of the proceeds will be used for social welfare projects as usual, and will also be donated to support reconstruction efforts following the Noto Peninsula earthquake.
Kanchu-takuhatsu training began in 1936 as part of training to train the mind and body. This year, about 50 people are scheduled to visit about 4,000 homes, mainly in the city, every day until January 14th.
On this day, an opening ceremony was held on the grounds of Shogoin Temple, where the head priest, Yasutoshi Miyagi (92 years old), appealed, ''The Noto Peninsula Earthquake was not something that happened to people.I would like you to tighten your heart and devote yourself to the winter alms training.'' Next, about 70 people, including the head of the Miyagi temple, monks, and believers, put on suzukake and hoods and departed in eight directions. They recited sutras in front of believers' homes and shops, and handed out amulets to ward off epidemics.
