The torches used in the traditional event ``Shunie'' at Todaiji Temple in Nara Prefecture left Nabari City, Mie Prefecture, and were transported to Todaiji Temple.
This year, due to the aging of the bearers, the statue was transported by train to the station closest to Todaiji Temple, shortening the distance it would have to be carried on foot.
In Nabari City, torches are made to be used in the traditional event "Shuuni-e" at Todaiji Temple, known as "Omizutori", and the "Taimatsu Choshin Gyoji", which brings the torches to Todaiji Temple, is It is said that this tradition has been going on for over 770 years.
Up until now, in addition to walking, buses and other means of transportation have been used, but due to the aging of the workers, this year, the train will be used to reach the station closest to Todaiji, compared to last year. The distance was reduced by about 7km.
On the 12th, a departure ceremony was held in front of Kintetsu's Akameguchi Station in Nabari City, and over 150 people participated, including local people carrying torches called ``kokan'' as well as tour passengers on the train. .
At the departure ceremony, Yoshifumi Morimoto, chairman of Iga Ichinoi Torch-Ko, who carried the torch, said in his greeting, ``I believe that we have set the event on a trajectory that will continue for many years to come.I want to safely deliver it to Todaiji Temple.'' Did.
In addition, Kyo Hara, President of Kinki Nippon Railway, said, ``It would be an honor if this event continues to be held and helps spread the word that this area plays a major role in Shuni-e.''
After this, the train arrived at the platform, the instructors brought in torches, and then departed for Nara Prefecture.
The train ran to Kintetsu Nara Station near Todaiji Temple, and from there the torches were carried to the temple on foot.