The 10th Kozanji Temple World Peace Prayer Ceremony, Tanabe City, Japan.
October 17, 2026
The historic Kozanji Temple in Tanabe City, Japan, hosted its 10th World Peace Prayer Ceremony (WPPC), celebrating a decade of heartfelt prayers and dedication to world peace.
As the ancestral temple of the Ueshiba family and resting place of Morihei Ueshiba, founder of Aikido, Kozanji holds special significance. It also honors the meaningful connection between Ueshiba Sensei and Masahisa Goi Sensei, founder of the World Peace Prayer movement, whose shared ideals of harmony and peace continue to inspire generations.
The ceremony brought together devoted local members, including Atom Suzuki, who has ties to renowned naturalist Minakata Kumagusu, and Tadao Okubo from Yokohama, who shared treasured memories of accompanying Goi Sensei to the Iwama dojo 68 years ago to visit Ueshiba Sensei. Seiko Takase, representative of the Association for the Preservation of the United Nations Peace Bell, brought a miniature Peace Bell from Tokyo, ringing it for each continent as participants offered prayers and peaceful meditation.
Joined by participants online and surrounded by commemorative photographs of Ueshiba Sensei and Goi Sensei, the gathering was a beautiful expression of unity, remembrance, and hope. This tenth anniversary also marked the beginning of a new chapter, with renewed efforts to encourage local residents and younger generations to carry this meaningful tradition forward.
Organizer Kumiko Zushi expressed her hope that World Peace Prayer Ceremonies will become cherished community traditions throughout Japan, much like local festivals, bringing people together in a shared commitment to peace. She extended her heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has supported these gatherings throughout the years and continues to help spread vibrations of peace from her beloved Wakayama Prefecture to the world.
As this beautiful tradition enters its next decade, may its message of compassion, harmony, and unity continue to inspire future generations.
May Peace Prevail On Earth
Infinite Peace. Infinite Love.
Kumiko Zushi