Gozan no Okuribi Festival Guide 2024

Gozan no Okuribi (五山送り火), also known as Daimonji, is a Kyoto tradition steeped in history and symbolism. On August 16th every year, giant bonfires are lit on five mountains surrounding the city, sending the spirits of ancestors back to the spirit world and marking the end of the Obon festival.

Understanding Gozan no Okuribi

The Gozan no Okuribi tradition dates back to the 16th century. It's associated with the Buddhist Obon festival, where families welcome the spirits of their ancestors home and guide them back to the spirit world with the light of the bonfires.

What to Expect at Gozan no Okuribi

The Gozan no Okuribi is a visually striking and deeply spiritual experience:

• Mountainside Bonfires: Five enormous bonfires are lit on mountainsides, forming the kanji characters for "dai" (大 – "big") and "myō" (妙 – "wonderful"), as well as shapes like boats and a torii gate.

• Viewing the Spectacle: While the act of lighting the fires is not open to the public, viewing the ethereal fires illuminating the mountainsides is a breathtaking piece of the festival experience.

• Solemn Atmosphere: Unlike many Japanese festivals, the atmosphere of Okuribi is quieter and more reflective, centered on contemplation and respect.

Gozan no Okuribi Fun Facts

• The five mountains and their characters/shapes are designated as Kyoto Prefectural Historic Sites.

• Building the bonfires takes several weeks of dedicated effort by community groups.

• The festival marks the unofficial end of summer in Kyoto.

Tips

• Arrive Super Early: Prime viewing spots disappear hours before the fires are lit (around 8pm).

• Hotel Rooftops or Restaurants: Some establishments offer special Okuribi viewing packages – very limited availability but convenient.

• Outside Central Kyoto: If you want less crowded options, hillsides on the outskirts of the city might offer more space.

Gozan no Okuribi Festival Locations and Viewing Spots

The Gozan no Okuribi festival takes place on five mountains surrounding Kyoto. Here are the characters/shapes lit on each mountain and some recommended viewing spots:

• Daimonji (大): This is the most famous character, located on Daimonji-yama (Mt. Daimonji).

  • • Kamogawa River: The stretch between Sanjo and Imadegawa Streets offers a classic view of "Daimonji."

    • Higashiyama district: Head to Kiyomizu-dera Temple or other elevated locations in the area for a unique perspective.

• Myoho (妙法): Located on Mt. Mandara.

  • • Kitayama-dori: Offers views from near the North side of Takano Bridge or around Notre Dame Jogakuin University.

    • North of Kyoto City: The mountains around Takaragaike Park provide unobstructed views.

• Funagata (船形): This character resembles a boat and is located on Mt. Funaoka.

  • • Arashiyama: The Togetsukyo Bridge area and nearby streets offer scenic views.

    • Misono Bridge: Provides a close-up perspective of the "Funagata" character.

• Hidari Daimonji (左大文字): Meaning "left Daimonji," this character is located on Mt. Okita.

  • • Western Hills of Arashiyama: Offers a unique vantage point.

    • Kinkakuji Temple (Golden Pavilion): While the temple itself is closed at night, the surrounding hills might offer a partial view.

• Torii-gata (鳥居形): This character resembles a torii gate and is located on Mt. Matsugasaki.

  • • Arashiyama: The western bank of the Katsura River, near the Togetsukyo Bridge, offers a good view.

    • Matsugasaki Park: Provides a closer perspective, though keep in mind it can get crowded.