Kanto · TokyoCeremony
Mountain ascetics light a towering sacred fire at the foot of Mount Takao, then walk barefoot across the embers, and visitors may follow.
Overview
Each March, the yamabushi mountain priests of Takaosan Yakuo-in temple perform the Hiwatari-sai, a dramatic fire-walking ritual at the base of Mount Takao on the western edge of Tokyo. It is a striking piece of Shugendo mountain asceticism performed within easy reach of the city centre.
After the ascetics cross the smouldering path, members of the public are invited to walk it too, praying for health and safety in the year ahead.
When & Where
The festival falls on the second Sunday of March, which in 2026 is March 8, starting around 13:00. It takes place on the traffic-safety prayer-hall grounds near the base of the mountain, not far from Takaosanguchi Station.
Nearest station: Keio Line Takaosanguchi Station.
Getting There
Take the Keio Line from Shinjuku direct to Takaosanguchi, roughly 50 minutes, then walk about five minutes to the festival ground. The event is popular, so aim to arrive well before the 13:00 start to find a viewing spot near the fire enclosure.
What to Expect
Robed yamabushi blow conch-shell horns and chant as a large bonfire of cypress boughs is kindled and blessed. Once the flames die to hot embers and ash, the priests stride across barefoot; ordinary visitors then queue to walk the cooled path themselves. It is a rare chance to take part in, not just watch, a centuries-old rite.
Tickets & Access
Watching is free, and participation in the fire-walk is open to the public at no charge, though you queue after the priests and remove your shoes.
Tips for Visitors
Wear socks that are easy to slip off and bring a bag for your shoes if you plan to walk. Combine the festival with a hike or cable-car ride up Mount Takao itself, one of the Tokyo area’s most popular day hikes.
Access and Map
| Dates | Sunday, March 8, 2026, from ~13:00 |
|---|---|
| Venue | Prayer-hall grounds at the base of Mount Takao, Hachioji, Tokyo |
| Access | ~5 min walk from Keio Line Takaosanguchi Station |
| Admission | Free |
| Official site | Takaosan Yakuo-in (official) |
Source: Takaosan Yakuo-in (official)
Image: Photo: Bencowburn / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0)
