Every January, Renkoji Temple in Ishikawa's Kaga City hosts a traditional event known as the Star Festival, a ritual focused on praying for good health and bountiful harvests in the year ahead. Held on the same date every year, the festival takes place at this historic Nichiren sect temple, which was founded in the 17th century and remains an important spiritual site in the region.
The highlight of the Star Festival is the monks' cold water purification practice, an ascetic ritual that draws quiet crowds despite the winter chill. On the day of the event, a large barrel of water prepared in advance is placed in the center of the temple grounds. Wearing only loincloths, the monks scoop the icy water into buckets and pour it over their heads while chanting traditional phrases that symbolize spiritual cleansing and renewal. The ritual is short, lasting around ten minutes, but its intensity and solemnity make it a memorable sight.
This practice is performed as a prayer for agricultural abundance and personal well-being, reflecting long-standing beliefs about purification and the connection between physical endurance and spiritual strength. After the ritual concludes, visitors are invited to take a small sip of the remaining water from the barrel, a custom unique to this festival and believed to bring protection and good fortune to families.
