Joya no Kane

Origins and history

The practice began in Chinese Zen temples during the Song dynasty before reaching Japan in the Kamakura period. Initially, monks rang the bell daily, but by the Muromachi period it became an exclusive New Year's Eve event. The custom faded during the Meiji era but was revived through radio broadcasts in the Showa period. During World War II, many bells were melted down for metal, forcing some temples to use drums instead.

Symbolism of the number

The bell is struck one hundred and eight times to represent the one hundred and eight worldly desires, or kleshas, that burden the human soul. These desires arise from the six senses interacting with pleasant, unpleasant, and neutral experiences across past, present, and future lives. Some traditions also link the number to divisions of the year or various forms of suffering.

How it is kept

Participants gather at temples as the year ends. Before striking the bell, they place their hands together in prayer. Some temples begin ringing before midnight, saving the final strike for the new year, while others wait until after midnight. Laypeople often have the chance to strike the bell themselves, though some sects reserve this role for monks.

Global variations

In South Korea, the tradition is observed at Bosingak in Seoul with thirty-three strikes, reflecting local Buddhist beliefs. In the United States, Japanese Buddhist temples celebrate the event, often scheduling it during the day to accommodate members who work or travel. These adaptations ensure the ritual remains accessible to diaspora communities.

How Joya no Kane is kept

Monks and lay participants gather at temples on December 31. They face the large bronze bell and place their hands together in prayer. The bell is then struck one hundred and eight times, either starting before midnight or immediately after. This rhythmic sound is believed to wash away the accumulated desires and impurities of the past year.

When and where

It takes place annually on December 31, marking the end of the old year. The striking usually begins late in the evening or exactly at midnight, depending on the specific temple's schedule.

The tradition is strongest in Japan, where it is widely practiced across various Buddhist sects. It is also observed in South Korea, particularly in Seoul, and at Japanese Buddhist temples in the United States.

What Joya no Kane means

The one hundred and eight strikes represent the removal of the one hundred and eight worldly desires, known as kleshas, that bind individuals to suffering. By hearing and participating in the ringing, people seek spiritual purification and a fresh start for the new year.

Days Joya no Kane is marked

Questions people ask about Joya no Kane

See also

Holy WeekThe solemn seven days leading to Easter, recalling the final week and Passion of JesusPretaOfferings and rites for spirits enduring deep hunger across Asian traditions.HatsumōdeThe first shrine or temple visit of the Japanese New Year to pray for good fortuneSigdAn Ethiopian Jewish holiday of covenant renewal, fasting, and longing for Zion

Good reading and sources

• Joya no Kane on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• More photos on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos and video
• Wikidata recordOpen data

It may contain mistakes. Traditions differ from one family, village and community to the next, and the people who keep them know them best. If something is wrong, tell us. Last refreshed 2026-10-04.