Visit Nara

The origins are hazy, but the event is spectacular. One theory is that there was a boundary dispute between Kohfukuji Temple and Todaiji Temple in 1760, which got out of hand, resulting in the mountain grass being set alight. Another story is that the locals started burning the mountain to drive away wild boars; still another says that it was meant to scare away ghosts. The event starts with fireworks, which can be seen all over Nara city. A torch is lit with sacred fire at Kasugataisha, which is then carried by a procession of Buddhist monks, then the hill is ignited by members of Kohfukuji, Todaiji and Kasugataisha, together. After burning for 30 minutes or so, members of Nara’s fire brigades duly put out the fires. It can be seen from all over Nara city, but the best places are close to the mountain, around Nara Park. The area becomes very crowded for the fireworks, and there are food stalls set up along the main road leading towards the mountain. The first bonfire is lit around 17:30 and the fireworks usually start at 18:00. The event will be postponed in bad weather.