Saitama Product and Tourism Association Now Accepting Applications for the Chichibu Pilgrimage Tour with Young Monks Commemorating the 12-Year Year of the Horse Grand Unveiling!
The Saitama Prefecture Product and Tourism Association has launched sales for a special day-trip bus tour, "Chichibu Pilgrimage with Young Monks." This tour commemorates the once-in-12-years Grand Unveiling of the Chichibu Fudasho.
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- 📰 Published: April 8, 2026 at 02:20
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A Fudasho monk will accompany you and ride the chartered bus to guide you! Enjoy a special day with friendly monks while experiencing an authentic pilgrimage wearing white robes.
[A special tour tailored to the once-in-12-years Year of the Horse Grand Unveiling]
The "Year of the Horse Grand Unveiling (Uma-doshi Sokai-cho)" is a grand unveiling held once every 12 years at 34 temples (Chichibu Fudasho) in the Chichibu region of Saitama Prefecture. It is a traditional event continuing since the Edo period. Since the statues of Kannon (Goddess of Mercy), which usually cannot be seen, are revealed to the public all at once, the entire Chichibu region is said to become a spiritual power spot during this period. Along with the viewing of hidden Buddhist images, there are special experiences that can only be enjoyed during this period (Wednesday, March 18 to Sunday, November 30, 2026).
◆ Recommended Points
・ A special, spiritual day touring in white pilgrimage robes.
・ An original stamp book (Nokyo-cho) using "Chichibu Meisen" silk.
・ A Buddhist vegetarian (Shojin) lunch enjoyed while chatting with the head priest.
◆ Visited Temples
No. 1 Shimabe-ji, No. 10 Daiji-ji, No. 13 Jigen-ji, No. 28 Hashidate-do, No. 29 Chosen-in
◆ Tour Overview
[Travel Date] Sunday, May 17, 2026
[Tour Price] 17,500 yen
[Departure and Arrival Location] Seibu-Chichibu Station
[Meals] 1 lunch: Buddhist vegetarian cuisine (Shojin ryori)
[Tour Conductor] Will accompany and assist you
[Transportation] Chartered bus (Planned to be Chichibu Railway Sightseeing Bus)
◆ Tour Details and Reservations
Kinki Nippon Tourist
FAQ
What is the 'Year of the Horse Grand Unveiling' at Chichibu Fudasho?
It is an event held once every 12 years during the Year of the Horse at 34 temples in Chichibu, where hidden Kannon statues are revealed.
Can anyone participate in this bus tour?
Yes, it is designed for beginners to enjoy safely. It includes wearing traditional white robes and a Buddhist vegetarian lunch.
What are the tour dates and prices?
The tour costs 17,500 yen and will take place on May 17, 2026, departing from and returning to Seibu-Chichibu Station.