Kurama Fire Festival

Every October 22, Kurama in Kyoto Prefecture celebrates the Kurama Fire Festival (Kurama no Hi Matsuri). Held to honor Yuki Shrine and its guardian deities, the town recreates a thousand-year-old ritual. As one of Kyoto’s three most unique festivals, the Kurama Fire Festival promises an unforgettable evening.

Kurama Fire Festival

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The Kurama Fire Festival dates back to 940, when Kyoto suffered an earthquake and was gripped by political unrest. To protect the capital, Emperor Suzaku ordered the Yuki Myojin deity to be moved from the Imperial Palace to Kurama, which is believed to be a northern spiritual gateway. The villagers of Kurama lit fires along the road to welcome kami (spirits). This moment is reenacted every October. 

Today, Kurama’s residents carry on this ancient tradition in honor of Yuki-jinja Shrine, located on the slopes of Mount Kurama. As the sun sets, small fires are lit outside each house before locals parade through the village shouting “Saireya! Sairyo!” (“Good Festival!”).

Festival Highlights

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The procession begins around 6 P.M., when children carrying small pine torches lead the way. As night falls, the men join by hoisting taimatsu (larger torches) that can reach three meters in length and weigh up to 80 kilograms.

At the height of the festival, the torch bearers gather at the steps leading to the Sanmon Gate. More than a hundred participants assemble, their flames lighting up the mountainside. Once the sacred rope is cut, select men climb the path to bring down mikoshi (portable shrines) carrying the deities Yuki Daimyojin and Yasho Daimyojin.

The mikoshi are then paraded through the village, accompanied by armored warriors and young women pulling ropes, a gesture said to bring good fortune in childbirth. The celebration continues until midnight, when the last fires begin to fade. 

Things to Do

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Kurama is more than just its famous fire festival. Visit Yuki Shrine and Kurama-dera Temple, both rich in spiritual history and surrounded by towering cedar forests. The village is also known for its mythical tengu legends. Keep an eye out for statues and masks celebrating these long-nosed mountain spirits. For longer stays, you can unwind at Kurama Onsen, a rustic hot spring near the station, or take the scenic hike from Kurama to Kibune, a peaceful mountain trail connecting two of Kyoto’s most charming villages.