Gozan no Okuribi is one of Kyoto’s most iconic summer traditions, held annually on August 16. During this solemn and visually striking event, enormous bonfires are lit on five mountains surrounding Kyoto, creating glowing symbols against the night sky.
The ceremony marks the end of the Obon season, a traditional Japanese Buddhist period when the spirits of deceased ancestors are believed to return to visit their families. The bonfires symbolically guide these spirits back to the spiritual world.
The first fire is traditionally lit at 8:00 p.m. on Mount Nyoi-ga-take in the Higashiyama area, forming the character 大 (Dai), meaning “great” or “large.” The other fires are then lit in succession on the surrounding mountains.
The five displays burn quietly for approximately 30 minutes, illuminating the mountainsides and creating a memorable sight across Kyoto’s summer night sky.
The exact origins of Gozan no Okuribi remain uncertain, although some accounts associate the tradition with Kyoto’s ancient history. The ceremony reflects a blend of Buddhist beliefs and traditional Japanese reverence for nature.
Passed down through generations by local communities, the event continues to hold deep cultural and spiritual significance. It is both a tribute to ancestors and an important expression of Kyoto’s heritage.
Each of the five mountains features a distinctive fire display, making the ceremony a collection of symbolic images visible from different parts of the city.
The best-known bonfire forms the character 大 (Dai) on Mount Nyoi-ga-take in the Higashiyama range. It is the first of the five fires to be lit and is one of the most recognizable symbols of Kyoto’s summer festival season.
Two Chinese characters, 妙 (Myo) and 法 (Ho), are illuminated on the eastern and western mountains of Matsugasaki. Together, they express an important concept in Buddhist teachings.
On Mount Funa-yama in the Nishigamo area, the flames form the shape of a boat. Known as Funagata, this display is one of the event’s most distinctive designs.
On Mount Daimonji in the Okita-yama area, another large 大 (Dai) character is formed by the flames. This display is known as Hidari Daimonji, meaning “Left Daimonji.”
The final display forms the shape of a traditional Japanese torii gate on Mount Mandara in the Saga Toriimoto area. Torii gates are commonly found at Shinto shrines and symbolize the entrance to sacred space.
Gozan no Okuribi attracts large numbers of visitors, and Kyoto takes on a magical atmosphere as the fires appear across the surrounding mountains.
Popular viewing areas include the banks of the Kamo River, the Arashiyama area, and locations around Kyoto Station. Visibility varies depending on the location, and not every viewing spot offers a clear view of all five bonfires.
For the best experience, plan your viewing location in advance and arrive early, as popular areas can become crowded. Following local guidance and respecting residential neighborhoods will help preserve the peaceful atmosphere of this traditional event.
Today, Gozan no Okuribi remains an important part of Kyoto’s cultural identity and a major seasonal event for residents and visitors alike. It offers a rare opportunity to experience the city’s spiritual traditions, historical heritage, and deep connection with the natural landscape.
For travelers visiting Kyoto in August, witnessing these enormous fires glowing across the mountains is a memorable way to experience one of Japan’s most meaningful traditional ceremonies.
Holding period August
Walk from Kyoto City bus stop
Car from Kyoto Minami IC of Meishin Expressway