Come to the Asian Art Museum to ring in the new year in the Japanese tradition. Join the community as we ring our 2,100-pound, 16th-century Japanese temple bell to release the pain of the previous year and celebrate what is to come. Engage in the joy of the moment as we pull upon ancient traditions and foster new hope.

Led by Rev. Keisuke Lee-Miyaki, this inspiring ceremony includes a purification ritual and chanting of the Buddhist Heart Sutra. The bell is struck 108 times to usher in the New Year and curb the 108 mortal desires (bonno) that, according to Buddhist belief, torment humankind.

We encourage visitors to purchase general admission tickets in advance. An admission ticket guarantees entry to the museum, but a separate numbered ticket (available at the entrance to Samsung Hall) is required to ring the bell.

Bell-Ringing Ceremonies

Public Bell-Ringing: 1 PM

All visitors are invited to take part in the afternoon ceremony. Numbered tickets to ring the bell are distributed beginning at 12 PM at the entrance to Samsung Hall on a first-come, first-served basis.

Member Bell-Ringing: 10:30 AM

A morning ceremony is offered for members. Not yet a member? Join today to experience this morning session and other exclusive benefits.

Community Art Activity

10:30 AM–4:30 PM | Kadomatsu (Japanese New Year Decoration)
Bring the family to create paper Kadomatsu, the traditional symbol of the New Year.

Tours and Storytelling

11 AM | Ha Chong-Hyun: Retrospective Tour
11 AM | Family Storytelling (ages 3–6)
12:15 PM | Touch Tour of the Bell for Blind and Visually Impaired Community
2 PM | Collection Tour
2 PM | Family Storytelling (all ages)
3:30 PM | Ha Chong-Hyun: Retrospective Tour