Guide
The Tejikara Fire Festival is a legendary traditional fire festival held at Tejikara Ojinja Shrine in Gifu City, Gifu Prefecture. This historic event has been recorded since the 1760s and is officially designated as an intangible folk cultural property of Gifu Prefecture. It is a high-energy, dynamic spectacle where intense sparks, the roar of firecrackers, and the raw passion of men carrying portable shrines (mikoshi) come together in a breathtaking display.
The absolute highlight is the lighting of the massive "Goshinto" (sacred lantern), which stands 20 meters tall, followed by the dramatic "Waterfall Fireworks." As sparks rain down, men in traditional attire carry shrines decorated with fireworks, creating a scene of overwhelming intensity. The festival reaches its peak with various fire-based performances, including hand-held fireworks and mountain burning rituals. It is a sensory experience that goes beyond sight, involving the heat of the flames and the thunderous sound of firecrackers.
The main festival is held annually on the second Saturday of April. The next scheduled date is April 10, 2027. Additionally, a summer version of the event is sometimes held in August at Nagara River Park for tourism and reconstruction purposes.
The main festival takes place at Tejikara Ojinja Shrine.
This festival is incredibly high-energy, characterized by flying sparks and a dynamic atmosphere. When viewing, please stay aware of your surroundings to safely enjoy the intense visual and auditory spectacle. As this is a sacred traditional ritual, please observe the local customs and show respect to the local culture.
Since the event takes place at night, the ground and paths will be dark; we highly recommend wearing comfortable, sturdy walking shoes. Because of the nature of a fire festival, be prepared for the heat and loud noises. Please check the official website for the latest rules and updates.