Japan- 365 days and counting. On April 9, a commemorative event was held in front of the Hongwanji gates entertaining passers-by, marking the one year countdown for the seven hundred fiftieth memorial for Shinran Shonin observance at Hongwanji in Kyoto. The Ryukoku University baton and cheerleading squad, symphonic band, and Heian high school brass band performed after the unveiling of the countdown panel. A large floodlight was used to cast a large image of the sagarifuji wisteria crest onto the doors of the Goeido and Amidado gates in the evenings from April 9-18. With hopes that this historical observance will bring large numbers of Jodo Shinshu interests from throughout the world, Hongwanji is conducting various events until the start of the services in 2011.

(Excerpt from Hongwanji Journal, April 20, 2010)