Guide
The Hayama Fire Festival is a traditional event with over 400 years of history, held every year on August 15th at Hayama Shrine in Tomioka, Fukushima. This ritual is deeply rooted in the community as a prayer for bountiful harvests and family safety, and it is officially designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Fukushima Prefecture.
The highlight of the festival is the sight of young men, dressed in traditional fundoshi, carrying massive torches measuring 2–3 meters in length and weighing up to 40kg. As they climb the mountain toward the 230-meter summit, their powerful shouts of "Sendo, Sendo!" echo through the night, creating an overwhelming and awe-inspiring atmosphere.
The most spectacular sight is the glow of the massive torches burning intensely in the darkness. Watching the sparks fly as the participants race up the mountain and reach the summit is a truly unforgettable experience.
Following the sacred ritual, a ceremony involving 33 circuits around the shrine grounds takes place, leading into a lively Bon Odori dance. Immersing yourself in this environment of fire and tradition offers a profound way to feel the spirit of a Japanese summer.
The festival is held annually on August 15th.
The event takes place at Hayama Shrine in Kamioka, Tomioka.
This is a highly dynamic ritual involving intense fire. Since it takes place outdoors at night, the surroundings will be very dark. Because of the heat from the torches, flying sparks, and smoke, we recommend maintaining a safe distance to enjoy the visual spectacle safely.
As this is a nighttime outdoor event, please wear comfortable clothing suitable for walking in dark environments.