The Kurama Fire Festival (鞍馬の火祭, Kurama no Hi Matsuri) is one of Kyoto’s most dramatic and visually striking traditional events, held every year on the night of October 22nd in the mountain village of Kurama, north of the city. Rooted in ancient Shinto rituals, the festival is dedicated to the Yuki Shrine and dates back over a thousand years to the Heian period. Originally performed to welcome the shrine’s deities and protect the village from evil spirits, the celebration now draws crowds from across Japan and the world for its awe-inspiring display of fire and devotion.
As night falls, the quiet streets of Kurama transform into a sea of flames. Residents, dressed in traditional garments, carry massive pine torches -- some weighing more than 80 kilograms/176.37 pounds -- through the narrow mountain paths, shouting “Saireyaa, Saireyo!” to purify the area and honor the gods. The fiery procession, set against the dark backdrop of the mountains, creates an intense and unforgettable atmosphere. More than just a spectacle, the Kurama Fire Festival embodies the deep spiritual connection between humans, nature and the divine; preserving a powerful sense of community and tradition that continues to burn brightly through the centuries.
