Higan-e is a service held twice a year, at the spring and fall equinox.

September Equinox 2025 and 2026 and 2027 is September 22

The equinox is when the weather is mild, not too hot and not too cold, and when nature is in harmony. Thus it is a time for reflection and meditation on this harmony in one’s own spiritual life.

Higan is a word that means “the other shore” of Enlightenment. The Higan season should be used to reflect on the path of understanding the Six Paramitas (Perfections). The Six Paramitas are:

•       Dana (giving)
•       Sila (behavior or discipline)
•       Kisanti (patience)
•       Virya (endeavor)
•       Dhyana (meditation), and
•       Prajna (wisdom)

— Source: Midwest Buddhist Temple Jodo Shinshu Buddhism