Japan

Gozan no Okuribi: Kyoto’s Fiery Farewell to Summer

If you’re lucky enough to find yourself in Kyoto on August 16th, you’re in for a spectacular treat. The Gozan no Okuribi, or Daimonji Festival, is a mesmerizing display of giant bonfires set ablaze on Kyoto’s surrounding mountains, marking the end of the Obon season. It’s an event steeped in tradition, emotion, and, let’s be honest, a fair amount of summer heat. But trust me—it’s well worth SWEATING through. Did I mention it was hot?

A Fiery Spectacle with Deep Roots

The origins of Gozan no Okuribi date back centuries, and while the exact beginnings remain a bit of a mystery, the festival is believed to help guide the spirits of ancestors back to the afterlife. Five enormous kanji characters and symbols are set aflame on the city’s mountains, the most famous being the Daimonji (大) on Mount Daimonji. The fires burn brightly for about 30 minutes, visible from various points throughout the city, creating an atmosphere that is both eerie and awe-inspiring.

The People Make the Festival

While the fires are the main event, the people are equally unforgettable. Kyoto comes alive with energy as locals and visitors alike gather to witness the spectacle. Families spread out along the Kamo River with picnic blankets, elderly residents recount festival memories from their youth, and excited travelers bond over the shared anticipation of the glowing kanji appearing in the night sky.

The streets are bustling, the atmosphere is electric, and, of course, the festival food stalls are out in full force.

Why Kyoto in August?

Kyoto is a must-visit any time of year, with its beautiful temples, picturesque gardens, and deep cultural roots. But experiencing the city during Gozan no Okuribi is an entirely different adventure. Yes, it’s hot. Yes, the crowds are REAL. The magic of the festival—the flickering firelight, the buzz of excitement, the sense of connection to something ancient—makes it all worthwhile.

So grab a cold drink…or three, stake out a good viewing spot, and embrace the moment.