Illustration of skaters on a frozen woodland pond with a bonfire on the bank and lanterns in the trees (Chion-in Temple New Year's Eve Bell Ringing)

Chion-in Temple New Year's Eve Bell Ringing

2026 dates not announced yet. Details are from 2025.

Ring in the New Year at Chion-in Temple with their traditional Joya no Kane (New Year's Eve bell ringing) ceremony. Witness 17 monks strike the massive bell 108 times, a ritual to cleanse 108 earthly desires and welcome the new year with a pure heart. This ancient tradition offers a profound cultural experience as the year concludes.

Map It Details Official site

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Plan Your Visit

Website / Tickets

chion-in.or.jp

Last year

Tickets

FREE

Ages

All ages

Neighborhood

Higashiyama Ward

Featured Performers

  • 17 monks

Food & Drink

Not specified, but typically available at temple grounds during events.

Parking

On-site parking is very limited and not guaranteed. Public transportation is highly recommended. For those with specific needs (e.g., memorial services, burials), guided parking is available. Visitors for tourism purposes can use the Shinmon Minami Parking lot.

Accessibility

Wheelchair accessible, with wheelchair rentals available upon request.

Going?

Location

See it and nearby events on the map
Chion-in Temple · 400 Linshita-cho, Kyoto, Kyoto 605-8686 Get Directions

Local Insight & Ratings

Family Friendly

🎄 🎄 🎄 🎄 ⚪ (4/5)

Best For

Cultural experiences, new year's traditions, families

Vibe

Traditional, solemn, communal

Energy Level

Low

Photo Friendly

📷 📷 📷 📷 📷 (3/5)

Weather Sensitivity

High

Tips & Advice

  • Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot for the bell-ringing ceremony, as it is a popular event.
  • Dress warmly, as the event takes place outdoors on a winter night.
  • Be prepared for large crowds and consider using public transportation to reach the temple.
  • While visitors cannot ring the bell themselves, the experience of witnessing the monks' ritual is profound.
  • Check the temple's official website for any last-minute schedule changes or specific visitor guidelines.

Special Events & Promotions

  • Traditional New Year's Eve bell ringing ceremony
  • Cleansing of 108 earthly desires
  • Ritual performed by 17 monks

Links & Contact

Website / Tickets Contact

Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can visitors ring the bell themselves?

No, the bell is rung by 17 monks of Chion-in Temple as part of a special ritual to cleanse 108 earthly desires.

What time does the event start?

The bell ringing ceremony begins around 10:40 PM on December 31st.

Is there an admission fee?

No, admission to witness the New Year's Eve bell ringing ceremony is free.

What should I wear?

It is recommended to dress warmly in layers as the event is held outdoors in winter. Comfortable shoes are also advisable due to potential crowds and walking.

Is the temple accessible for people with disabilities?

Yes, the temple is accessible, and wheelchair rentals are available upon request at the information desk.

View More FAQs

Featured Video

Always check the official website for the most current information.

We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.

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