Every January, the historic city of Nara comes alive in an extraordinary way. On the fourth Saturday of the month, a centuries-old tradition draws spectators from near and far to witness the hillside of Mount Wakakusa ablaze in a spectacle known as Wakakusa Yamayaki. This year, the event took place on Saturday, January 24, 2026, continuing a ritual that has been part of Nara’s cultural fabric for generations.
What Is Wakakusa Yamayaki?
Wakakusa Yamayaki (若草山焼き) literally means “burning of Mount Wakakusa.” It is an annual festival during which the dry grass covering the slopes of Mount Wakakusa, the gentle 342-meter hill overlooking Nara Park, is intentionally set on fire. The flames can be seen across the city and from many vantage points, including the ruins of Heijō Palace and areas around Kōfuku-ji and Todai-ji Temples.
Although the precise origins are unclear, the event is thought to be at least hundreds of years old. One popular theory suggests that it began as the result of a boundary dispute between the powerful temples Todai-ji and Kofuku-ji in the 18th century, and was later adopted as a ritual that heralds the arrival of early spring. Other interpretations link it to agricultural traditions, such as burning to encourage new grass growth or to drive away wild animals that threatened crops.
A Day of Fire, Music, and Community Spirit
Wakayama Yamayaki is more than a fireworks show and bonfire. The festival is a community celebration, with a variety of programmed events that build anticipation throughout the day.
Before sunset, festivalgoers can experience street food stalls, local performances, and even interactive activities near the base of the mountain. As evening approaches, the atmosphere becomes charged with excitement — families, photographers, and visitors gather in large numbers, bundled against the winter chill, preparing for the night’s main spectacle.
Fireworks and the Torch Procession
The official ceremony typically begins with a fireworks display over Nara’s skyline, launching around 600 shots that light up the night above Wakakusa. As the sky glows, attention turns to an elaborate torch procession. Flames are first lit from the sacred fire at Kasuga Taisha Shrine and carried ceremonially to the foot of Mount Wakakusa. Buddhist monks and community members then join the ritual, carrying torches and sacred fire up the hillside to prepare for the mountain burning itself.
The main ignition often happens around 18:30, when dozens of torchbearers and volunteers set the dry grass alight. Within minutes, the hillside becomes a dramatic ribbon of flame that climbs into the night sky, illuminating Nara Park and creating a breathtaking contrast against the winter darkness.
Cultural Meaning and Local Importance
For many people in Nara, Wakakusa Yamayaki is a symbolic expression of renewal and community unity. It is traditionally associated with prayers for peace, protection from fire and disasters, and the peaceful wellbeing of residents and visitors alike. Local temples and shrines — including Kasuga Taisha, Todai-ji, and Kofuku-ji — are involved in the ceremonies, reflecting the blending of Shinto and Buddhist traditions that characterizes Japanese seasonal festivals.
While its exact origin remains a topic of folklore and debate, the spectacle itself has become an enduring symbol of winter in Nara — a moment when fire, history, and nature converge in a visually stunning celebration.
Where and How to Experience Yamayaki
The best viewing spots for Wakakusa Yamayaki include:
- Near the base of Mount Wakakusa, around Nara Park
- Heijō Palace Ruins, where the burning mountain frames historic temple remains
- Various elevated viewpoints throughout the city where the flames and fireworks become a dramatic part of the nightscape
There are also organized spectator areas and ticketed sections, especially close to the mountain and fireworks launch sites, which can offer clearer views and local hospitality events leading up to the burn.
A Must-See Winter Tradition
Wakakusa Yamayaki remains one of Japan’s most visually spectacular winter events. It is both an expression of local heritage and a festive experience that draws visitors into the rhythms of traditional seasonal celebration. Whether you’re fascinated by history, culture, or simply breathtaking visual experiences, this event offers a memorable way to connect with Japan’s living traditions.