5 Japanese Fire Festivals to feel the heat of the flame

In the Noto Peninsula of Ishikawa, large lanterns called “kiriko” are unique to the region. The Wajima Grand Festival, which lasts four nights, is one of the largest and most unique, with young men dressed as women carrying portable shrines into the sea, many kiriko being pulled simultaneously on a bridge, and portable shrines shaped like a sea bream or shrimp. The Taimatsu Shinji, in which people vie for the ornaments called “gohei” (sacred staff) from grandly burning torches, is one of the most breathtaking.

At the Kiriko Kaikan, visitors can view the kiriko, which can be as high as four stories, from above and even try their hand at carrying a kiriko. Visitors can learn kiriko and Noto culture while listening to the musical accompaniment. This festival is recommended for those who want to see fantastic sights and experience the traditional culture of the region.

The Hifuri Shinji is a Shinto ritual held at Aso Shrine, which has a history of approximately 2,300 years. It is a traditional event to celebrate the marriage of the deity and to welcome the Princess Goddess by the “ujiko” (shrine parishioners) waving thatched torches. Several rings of fire float in front of the shrine gate, creating a fantastic sight.

Visitors can also participate in the fire-waving experience. This shrine is dedicated to the god of married couples and is known as a power spot for marriage. Recommended for those who would like to experience the fire festival in a sacred atmosphere and for those who would like to have a special experience to share with their loved ones.

You can enjoy a warrior parade, a fire festival, and even cherry blossoms at the Kanoukaen Festival in Unzen City, Nagasaki. Roughly 200 warriors carrying torches parade through Tachibana Park, where cherry blossoms are in full bloom. This festival recreates the history of a warrior who took his own life to save people suffering from the oppression of Christianity during the Warring States Period (about 400 years ago).

Visitors can also participate in the samurai parade by advance registration. The warrior procession looks great in the dark and makes for a unique photo opportunity. This festival is a must-see for those who love history and culture, those who want to experience the world of samurai and battles, and of course, those who love photography.

There are some amazing festivals in Japan where people jump into a burning fire. One such festival is the Toba Fire Festival. Two huge torches, 5 meters high, are set up at the Toba Shinmeisha shrine, which houses a sacred tree called the “Shinki” and a rope called the “Jyuni nawa,” which supports the sacred tree. Men who have purified themselves with water jump into the burning torches and compete for the sacred tree and the ropes. The outcome of the battle will determine the weather and the harvest of the year.

This festival is said to be one of the most dangerous festivals in Japan and is recommended for those who want to experience the thrills and the fundamental meaning of the ancient festival. It will be an experience you will never forget.

The Hida Furukawa Kitsune Fire Festival is a fantastic festival featuring a procession of mysterious fox brides. In Japan, foxes have long been considered sacred as they possess spiritual powers. The origin of this festival is a legend that a beautiful local girl married the son of the fox god. People who witness the marriage ceremony are believed to be blessed with a bountiful harvest, family safety, and prosperous business, making it a popular attraction for many tourists.

Locals and tourists alike wear fox makeup on this day. Traditional wedding ceremonies can be seen, and the venue is united by dancing, drumming, and sake served to celebrate the ceremony. Visitors can also try on kimonos and feel like they have wandered into a fairy tale world. This festival is recommended for those who are interested in traditional Japanese events and those who love cosplay.