Kanbodaiji Temple (Shogatsudo)
It is said to have been built in the era of Emperor Shomu as a branch temple of Todaiji Temple in Nara, but most of it was burned down during Oda Nobunaga's attack on Iga. The name "Shogatsu-do" spread because a ritual ceremony for the principal image, the Eleven-Headed Kannon, is held on the lunar New Year. The tower gate, main hall, and the principal image, the Eleven-Headed Kannon, which is only open to the public once every 33 years, are designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan. In addition, the Shusho-e ceremony, which is held every year on February 11th and 12th, is a unique combination of a common event and a solemn ceremony...