Guida
The Daisho-in Fire Walking Ceremony is a sacred Shingon Esoteric Buddhist ritual held at Daisho-in Temple, located on the scenic island of Miyajima in Hiroshima Prefecture. This ritual takes place twice a year, on April 15 and November 15. The most striking feature is the 'Fire Walking' (Hiwatari), where participants walk barefoot over burning cypress (hinoki) leaves. The ceremony begins with solemn Buddhist services and culminates in the dynamic and intense spectacle of rising flames and embers.
This ritual is deeply rooted in the traditions of Shingon Esoteric Buddhism. According to legend, the practice originated when the monk Shoho Rigen Daishi performed a Goma (fire ritual) using brushwood to drive away poisonous snakes during his mountain ascetic training. The fire used in the ceremony is said to be a sacred flame passed down from the 'Eternal Sacred Fire' that has burned for over 1,200 years, originating from the time when Kobo Daishi practiced on Mount Misen.
The highlight of the event is the 'Hiwatari' (Fire Walking) segment. Participants, including high priests, monks, Yamabushi (ascetics), and devotees, walk across the glowing embers of cypress leaves while chanting prayers for the fulfillment of their wishes. The atmosphere is incredibly intense and powerful, filled with the heat of the flames and the thick smoke rising into the air, creating a truly transcendental experience.
The ceremony is held in conjunction with the spring 'Sanki Daigongen Spring Festival' on April 15, and the autumn 'Autumn Festival' on November 15. The proceedings generally begin around 11:00 AM with formal Buddhist services and are expected to conclude around 3:00 PM. We recommend checking the specific seasonal atmosphere, as the experience differs slightly between the spring and autumn sessions.
Participation is open to anyone who wishes to join. The ritual begins with formal prayers, followed by the Saitodai Goma Kyo (Great Fire Ritual) around 1:00 PM, and the actual Fire Walking ceremony starting around 2:00 PM. Participants share a unique spiritual connection as they walk through the fire while focusing on their personal prayers and intentions.
Daisho-in Temple is nestled within the lush, natural beauty of Miyajima. Before or after the ceremony, visitors can enjoy a peaceful stroll through the temple grounds and the surrounding natural environment, which offers a serene atmosphere perfect for reflection.
If you intend to participate in the fire walking, please be prepared to walk barefoot. It is highly recommended to follow the full schedule starting from the 11:00 AM service to fully appreciate the ritual's progression. Please respect the sacred nature of the event by maintaining a quiet and respectful demeanor throughout the ceremony.