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30th Annual Japanese New Year’s Bell-Ringing Ceremony
Workshops & Activities, For Families, For Members
Dec 31Free with museum admission
9:30 AM—2 PM
Samsung Hall
Ring in the New Year by taking a swing at a 2,100-pound, 16th-century Japanese temple bell. Led by Rev. Gengo Akiba, with opening remarks about the Japanese New Year by community leader Yoshie Akiba, this inspiring ceremony will include a purification ritual and chanting of the Buddhist Heart Sutra. Rev. Akiba will begin the bell-ringing, and participants may then take turns ringing the bell to leave behind any unfortunate experiences, regrettable deeds or ill luck from the previous year. The bell will be struck 108 times on New Year’s Eve to usher in the New Year and curb the 108 mortal desires (bonno) that, according to Buddhist belief, torment humankind.
First come, first served. Pick up tickets to ring the bell at the admissions desk. Members can enjoy earlier admission to this event!- Members only: 9:30 - 11:30 AM
- General admission: 11:30 AM - 2:00 PM
We make every effort to allow all our visitors an opportunity to participate in this ceremony. However, to ensure you have a chance to ring the bell, it is recommended that you arrive at Samsung Hall no later than 12 PM.
