Kyoto Otokuni Bamboo Grove

Smoking Out of Demons at Hoshakuji Temple

Oni, or demons, are ubiquitous in Japanese culture, and the annual Onikusube spring festival at Hoshakuji temple is a unique chance to encounter some of these notorious creatures in the flesh. Located at the foot of Mt. Tennozan in Oyamazaki-cho, the temple has held this festival to dispel misfortune and pray for good luck since its founding in 724. Oni appearing as symbols of misfortune are smoked out and driven off with sacred mugwort arrows and peachwood bows.

Location
Hoshakuji Temple
Date & Time
2 pm on the third Sunday of April