Wakakusa Yamayaki, Nara, Japan
This trip to Nara was an unexpected surprise. After extending my stay in Japan, I decided to revisit Nara — and by chance, it was the day of the Wakakusa Yamayaki Festival. Held once a year, this event sets the grass on Nara’s Mount Wakakusa ablaze in a spectacular fire show.
Originally, I planned to hike the mountain, but the visitor centre staff told me about the festival, which usually takes place on the fourth Saturday of January, weather permitting. The ceremony involves Todaiji Temple, Kofukuji Temple, and Kasuga Shrine, and has been celebrated for centuries. While its origin is unclear, theories suggest it began to settle temple disputes or drive away wild animals.
The festival starts around noon, but the mountain burning happens after sunset. I spent the afternoon exploring temple grounds before finding a spot near the base of Mount Wakakusa. Hundreds of firefighters prepared for the event, and as the sun set, a torch procession led by priests arrived.
Rituals began with the burning of wishes and offerings before fireworks lit up the night sky. Then, the mountain itself was set ablaze — a breathtaking sight of flames climbing the hillside under careful supervision.
As the fire burned, crowds began leaving through narrow exits, creating a slow but orderly flow. Instead of waiting for the packed buses, I walked back to JR Nara Station, enjoying the lively streets along the way.
Later, a local friend told me most residents watch from home or from nearby restaurants due to the crowds. It turns out, most of the attendees were visitors like me — making it truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Route Detail
Distance: 7.36km out & back from JR Nara Station
Total elevation gain: 98m
Time: 1h 46m (total time with breaks 4h 03m)
Difficulty: Easy
Transportation & Miscellaneous
Train from Osaka Station to Nara Station ¥820
Food ¥1843
