Gokaicho
Practices御開帳 ・ Reading: ごかいちょう
Definition
Gokaicho is a formal unveiling or public display of a Buddhist sacred image that is normally concealed or shown only at set intervals.
A scheduled unveiling
A gokaicho belongs to a particular temple, image, and ritual calendar. The object shown may be the normally hidden image or an authorized front-standing image, as at Zenkoji.
Not a generic exhibition
The event is worship before a sacred image, even when it also attracts large numbers of visitors. Access, viewing order, ceremonies, and photography follow temple rules.
Verify the exact event
Intervals are often described using traditional inclusive counting and can be changed or postponed. Confirm dates, which image is displayed, tickets, and restrictions on the temple's official site.
Common questions
- Does gokaicho always reveal the original hidden image?
No. Some events display an authorized substitute or front-standing image while the principal hidden image remains concealed.
- How often does a gokaicho happen?
There is no universal interval. It depends on the temple and image, and traditional counting can make English descriptions confusing.
- Can I photograph a gokaicho image?
Do not assume so. Photography of sacred images and interiors is often restricted, and the event's official rules control.