'Omizutori' rite heralds arrival of spring

NARA, Japan - Monks wave large torches from a verandah at Todaiji Temple in Nara on March 1, scattering sparks over the crowd below in the annual ''Omizutori'' (water-drawing) rite at the temple. The monks later drew water from a nearby well and offered it to the image of the 11-faced Kannon in the Nigatsudo Hall. In the event, the monks prayed for happiness and peace.

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2003/3/01 00:00:00

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Kyodo / Kyodo News Images

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2003 Kyodo News

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(1)'Omizutori' rite at Todaiji Temple heralds arrival of spring

NARA, Japan - The verandah of the Nigatsudo Hall of Todaiji Temple in Nara is lit up with torches waved by monks in the annual ''omizutori (water drawing)'' rite March 1. The classical rite in the ancient capital Nara symbolizes the arrival of spring.

(2)'Omizutori' rite at Todaiji Temple heralds arrival of spring

NARA, Japan - Sparks from torches waved by monks are scattered around at the verandah of the Nigatsudo Hall of the Todaiji Temple in Nara in the annual ''omizutori (water drawing)'' rite March 1. The classical rite in the ancient capital Nara symbolizes the arrival of spring.