June 21st to September 23rd, 2025
(summer solstice to autumn equinox)
At Ichibata Yakushi, we hang many wind chimes during this time. The origin of wind chimes, the “futaku,” was a small bell-like thing that was hung from the eaves of temples in ancient China and was said to ward off evil. It was brought to Japan along with Buddhism, and today’s wind chimes began when Heian aristocrats hung them in their homes. Wind chimes are, so to speak, Buddhist implements and are appropriate for temple events. We will hang wind chimes all over the temple grounds and hold a “Wind Chime Festival.” May the pleasant sound dispel the heat, drive away evil spirits, and drive away epidemics, and convey everyone’s wishes to Yakushi.
