Hana Matsuri

This event at Sensoji Temple celebrates the Buddha’s birthday on 8 April and is more formally called Bussho-e (仏生会) or Kanbutsu-e (灌仏会). Visitors can pour ama-cha onto a small figurine of the Buddha in front of the Five-Storied Pagoda in deference to the legend that when the Buddha was born nine dragons descended from the heavens and covered him with nectar. A picture depicting the Buddha’s birth is placed in the main hall, and visitors are treated to a free ama-cha service between 10am and 3pm. There is a small parade at 10am to place the Buddha’s picture in the main hall, and many girls come to the event dressed in kimono.