Ryuunji Temple : Shinjo's Shinzanshiki

[Shao Shan Temple is grateful for the connection with Shinjo Nohara (who trained with Taihaku) and Ryuunji Temple in Japan.  This is the final of several blog entries on Ryuunji - Kenzan returned to Shao Shan after the completion of the ceremonies. ]

Shinjo's Mountain Seat Ceremony

In two days of elaborate ceremonies on May 14th and 15th, Shinjo Nohara was formally installed as abbot of Ryuunji Temple in Misumi, Japan.  

Preparations for the ceremonies began months before and it is estimated there were more than 200 people in attendance.  Priests from many area temples were in attendance and helped in the preparations.    

The ceremonies on the 15th began with a procession
headed by children in elaborate costumes.

The temple grounds were decorated with large buddhist flags from Sri Lanka donated by a Sri Lankan monk who practiced at Ryuunji.