Kiku Yakushi Chrysanthemum Festival at Kongoji Temple

About This Event

The Nov 3 Kiku Yakushi rite and chrysanthemums throughout the temple grounds

Kongoji Temple in Gojo, Nara, is listed as the 9th sacred site of the Saigoku Yakushi pilgrimage and the 23rd of the Kansai Temples of Flowers, enshrining a Yakushi Buddha triad as its principal image. Chrysanthemums are considered the flower most fitting for Yakushi Buddha, and the temple's traditional Kiku Yakushi rite offers chrysanthemums grown on the grounds in prayer for protection from illness. From November 1, 2026, the temple holds its chrysanthemum festival and special viewing, during which visitors can see a folding screen of chrysanthemum-dressed child figures and receive a chrysanthemum-themed red stamp. On November 3 (Culture Day), around 10:30am, the Kiku Yakushi rite is held with a reading of the Great Wisdom Sutra. Chrysanthemums are usually at their best from late October to early November.