First Kannon Day

First Kannon Day 初観音 marks the start of the year's Kannon (Goddess of Mercy) worship. It is the year’s first observance dedicated to Kannon, the Buddhist deity of mercy. It falls on January 18th mostly. Many temples hold special ceremonies inviting visitors to pray for compassion, protection, and good fortune in the coming year. 

The Japanese 初観音 is read "hatsu kannon". "Hatsu" means first and is used for many different New Year events in Japan. For example, "hatsuhinode", the first sunrise of the year, and "Hatsumode", first prayers of the year. People visit temples dedicated to Kannon on Hatsukannon, to participate in rituals, such as blessings and Sutra readings, and make New Year wishes. 

It is part of a deep rooted history, going back hundreds of years. If you would like to participate and / or receive a blessing for this occasion, keep an eye out for announcements from your local Kannon temples for dates and specifics.