“Hanamatsuri” - the Commemorative Service of Buddha’s Birth - Gathering of Traditional Japanese Buddhist Temples
Sunday, April 12, 1:00 pm
Koyasan Buddhist Temple, Little Tokyo
Los Angeles Buddhist Temple Federation, consists of seven local temples, observes the annual special service called “Hanamatsuri” to celebrate the Buddha’s birth on Sunday, April 12 at 1:00 pm at Koyasan Buddhist Temple, 342 East First Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012,
Members of the LABTF are Higashi Honganji, Jodo Shu, Koyasan, Long Beach Buddhist Church, Nichiren Shu, Nishi Hongwanji and Zenshuji.
According to several legends, Buddhist followers celebrate the birthday of Sakyamuni Buddha, the founder of Buddhism, by pouring sweet tea upon the top of the baby-Buddha statuette, ornamented by colorful flowers, and the special service featuring this ritual is called “Hanamatsuri,” which means the flower festival in Japanese.
This year’s Hanamatsuri with the theme of “Birth in our life,” will feature the commemorative service officiated by all priests from the affiliated temples and accompanied by JSPACC (Japanese Speaking Parents Association of Children with Challenges) Taiko group and the Children Chorus group.
Also Grateful Crane Ensemble will perform “Moon and Rabbit” and two other shows, especially for children to enjoy. This is a unique opportunity for the local Buddhists and visitors who are interested to discuss about birth in our life by using the birth of the historical Buddha and our children as examples.
Open to the public and free admission.
For more information, contact Rev. Keishin Kako at (213) 624-1267 or Hanamatsuri Committee, Los Angeles Buddhist Temple Federation, c/o Koyasan Buddhist Temple, 342 East First Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012.