The Nachi Fire Festival, or Nachi-no-Ogi Matsuri, is a vibrant and historic event held annually on July 14th at the Kumano Nachi Taisha Grand Shrine in Wakayama Prefecture, Japan.
This Shinto ritual involves participants carrying twelve massive, flaming torches down a steep path to the sacred Nachi Waterfall, symbolizing the purification of the route taken by the shrine's deities. Each torch, representing one of the shrine's twelve deities, is an impressive 50 kilograms and burns intensely, lighting up the night in a spectacular display of devotion and tradition.
The festival, known for its dramatic and spiritual atmosphere, draws numerous spectators who come to witness this unique blend of fire and faith amidst the lush natural scenery of Nachi Mountain. It serves as a profound reminder of Japan's rich cultural heritage and the enduring connection between the natural and spiritual worlds.
An overview of the day's proceedings can be seen here (Japanese).
Getting there
From JR Kii-Katsuura Station, board the Kumno Kotsu Bus and alight at 'Jinja/Otera Chushajo'. It's about a 10-minute walk to the shrine.
More info
Find out more about Kumano Nachi Taisha.
Tom Roseveare @tom.roseveare
Creative Director at Japan Travel, based in Tokyo. Feel free to reach out about living, working or travelling in Japan – just book a time.
