THE FIRST EVENT OF THE YEAR TO PRAY FOR PEACE AND ORDER THROUGHOUT THE YEAR
For seven days from New Year’s Day to January 7, this annual event is held in front of the principal image in the nainaijin (the innermost sanctuary) in the Main Hall. Prayers for a huge harvest, the safety of loved ones, good business, and world peace are offered. The gou-houin is traditionally a vermilion seal pressed onto the forehead; however, for general visitors who wish to pray for good health and protection from illness, it is bestowed in the form of a talisman, which is placed in a high spot in the room and kept as a protective charm for the year.
