Dogs in kimono parade at Nara temple linked to Prince Shotoku

OJI, Nara Prefecture–A parade of dogs added a twist to an annual procession of kimono-clad children during a traditional ceremony held at famed Darumaji temple in this western town.

Darumaji is closely associated with Prince Shotoku (574-622), a political reformer of near-mythical status who helped build the foundations of early Japan. It is said that his pet dog Yukimaru is buried there.

The canine parade in the temple precincts April 13 was essentially a novelty act for this year’s Daruma Eshiki ceremony.

Dog lovers, inspired by the links to Prince Shotoku, visit Darumaji for the traditional “Shichi-Go-San” rite of passage for children aged 3, 5 and 7.

Temple officials working in tandem with the Oji town government decided to organize a trial canine version of the procession of kimono-clad children so dog owners and their pets can take part in the annual ceremony as members of the regional community.

Minako Kamimura, who is 46 and an Oji resident, designed the costume for Yukimaru, Oji’s mascot character. She approached fellow dog lovers about joining the event, which resulted in a total of 12 border collies, golden retrievers and toy poodles being assembled from both within and outside Nara Prefecture.

The dogs were outfitted in Japanese-style “haori-hakama” full dress for men and the “furi-sode” long-sleeved kimono for single women. The parade from the temple gate to the front of the main hall covered a distance of about 60 meters under the watchful eye of visitors.

“This will make a good souvenir, as I had the opportunity to participate in the inaugural procession of dogs,” said 56-year-old Akira Tajima, who came from Toyohashi, Aichi Prefecture, to take part in the parade with his four dogs.

“There was this calm atmosphere, which allowed us to walk with composure,” Kamimura said. “I hope this will serve as an opportunity for people outside Nara Prefecture to learn about Oji and Yukimaru.”

Officials of the Oji tourism association said they plan to critically assess how the procession came off so they can prepare for future events.

“This is so interesting,” said Shukei Hino, Darumaji’s 76-year-old head priest. “I really hope we will continue holding similar events.”