If you’re visiting Japan during the summer and want to experience a peaceful yet visually stunning festival, head to Ofusa Kannon Temple in Nara Prefecture. This hidden gem is famous for its Wind Chime Festival, a celebration of sound, color, and seasonal beauty that offers a uniquely Japanese summer experience.

What Is Ofusa Kannon?

Ofusa Kannon, officially known as Ofusa Kannon Temple, is a charming Buddhist temple located in Kashihara City, Nara. It is dedicated to Kannon Bosatsu (the Bodhisattva of Compassion), who is believed to offer protection and healing.

Surrounded by beautiful gardens, the temple is famous for its seasonal flowers, such as roses in spring and autumn, and morning glories in summer. The peaceful atmosphere makes it a beloved destination for both locals and visitors.

Wind Chime Festival (Furin Matsuri)

Festival Period: July 1 – September 30

During this time, the temple grounds are decorated with over 2,500 colorful wind chimes (called furin in Japanese) from all over the country. As they sway in the breeze, they create a soft, cooling sound that offers relief from the summer heat and adds to the tranquil atmosphere.

Each wind chime has its own unique design, and many are handcrafted. You can stroll through the temple grounds to admire their beauty or even purchase one as a souvenir.

Note: The wind chimes can be enjoyed even in rainy or stormy weather. However, during strong typhoons, some may be temporarily removed for safety.

Admission Hours: 7:00 AM – 4:30 PM (Temple gates close at 5:00 PM)

Admission: Free for the temple grounds.

From 2025, there will be a 500 yen fee to enter the main hall (hondō).

Night Festival (Yomatsuri)

A magical Night Festival is held on select evenings during the Wind Chime Festival, where the chimes are illuminated by soft lamps, creating a dreamlike summer scene.

2025 Night Festival Dates:

• July 17 & 18 from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM
• Additional dates in August and September will be announced via the temple’s official Instagram.

The evening event features atmospheric lighting throughout the temple grounds and is a fantastic opportunity for photography or a quiet stroll under the stars.

How to Get There

By Train:
From Kintetsu Kyoto Station, take the Kintetsu Limited Express to Yamato-Yagi Station (about 1 hour). Transfer to the Kintetsu Kashihara Line and get off at Unebi Station. Ofusa Kannon is a 10-minute walk from there.

By Car:
About 1 hour from Kyoto or Osaka by car. Free parking is available near the temple, though it may be crowded during the festival period.

---

Travel Tips:

• Arrive early in the morning or visit during the night festival to avoid peak heat.
• Bring an umbrella just in case — but don’t worry, the wind chimes sound lovely even in the rain.
• Check the temple’s official website or Instagram for updates on weather and events.
• Be respectful — this is an active temple and a place of worship.

Whether you’re a culture enthusiast or just looking for a peaceful escape, the Wind Chime Festival at Ofusa Kannon offers an unforgettable experience of Japanese summer charm.

The reason why there are deer in Nara Park

Alcoholic beverage Anime April Architecture August Building Capital Area Cherry blossom February Festival Flower Izakaya Japanese food July June Kinki kyoto Kyushu Local ramen Manga March May Nature Night view Onsen Osaka Photogenic Pink Sakura September Shibuya Shopping Shrine Souvenir Spring Summer Superb view Temple Tips Tohoku Tokai Tokyo Torii White Winter