Chisho Daishi Otaiya Memorial Service

“Taiya” means the night before the funeral or death anniversary. This memorial service is held the night before the 29th of October, the passing day of Chisho Daishi Enchin, the restorer of Miidera Temple. The memorial service takes place at Chisho Daishi’s mausoleum, the Toin Daishido Hall. Ryoguzen, a Buddhist meal for offering, is offered to the seated statue of Chiso Daishi which was designated as National Treasures and revealed once a year, also to the statues of Okotsu Daishi and Kifudo-son. Ryoguzen is adjusted by monks who purify themselves by abstaining from eating meat and drinking alcohol.