Ring in the New Year by taking a swing at a giant 2,100-pound, 16th-century Japanese temple bell at the Asian Art Museum. Led by Rev. Gengo Akiba, with opening remarks about the Japanese New Year by Yoshie Akiba, this inspiring ceremony will include a purification ritual and chanting of the Buddhist Heart Sutra. Rev. Akiba will begin the bell ringing, and participants may take turns ringing the museum’s bronze bell to leave behind any unfortunate experiences, regrettable deeds and ill luck of the previous year. The bell will be struck 108 times on New Year’s Eve to usher in the New Year and curb the 108 mortal desires (bonno), which, according to Buddhist belief, torment humankind.

First come, first served. Pick up tickets to ring the bell at the admission desk.  Members can enjoy earlier admission to this event.

We make every effort to allow all our visitors an opportunity to participate in this ceremony. However, to ensure you have a chance to ring the bell, it is recommended that you arrive at Samsung Hall no later than 12:00pm.

Date
Dec 30, 2018

Time
9:30 AM (members only) and 11:30 AM (open to the public)

We make every effort to allow all our visitors an opportunity to participate in this ceremony. However, to ensure you have a chance to ring the bell, it is recommended that you arrive at Samsung Hall no later than 12 PM.

Information & Photos: http://www.asianart.org
Location
Samsung Hall

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