Kozu Fire Festival

About this event

Held in Iga City, Mie Prefecture, the "Kozu Fire Festival" is a traditional fire festival celebrated at Hoju-in Temple, which boasts a history of 1,260 years. Yamabushi mountain ascetics gathered from all over Japan conduct a Saitokoma (outdoor fire ritual) prayer service, praying amidst blazing flames for the fulfillment of wishes, good health, and the warding off of misfortunes. Participants can write their wishes on Gomagi wooden prayer sticks, throw them into the fire, and experience the fire-walking ascetic practice (Hiwatari) to purify mind and body through the power of fire. In addition, viewings of temple treasures and dedicatory martial arts demonstrations by martial artists gathered from across the country will be held. Visitors can also view Iga City-designated cultural properties such as the Lotus Sutra, Buddhist paintings, and the Grand Gokuraku Mandala under the guidance of monks. The experience package includes a paper talisman (kamifuda), the fire-walking experience, a Gomagi wooden prayer stick, and a special goshuin temple stamp, offering a special, extraordinary time. The event takes place rain or shine; however, in the event of heavy rain, the ceremony will be moved indoors and the fire-walking experience will be replaced with an indoor Goma prayer experience.

Venue

Kozusan Hoju-in Temple

1424 Kitayama, Iga, Mie 518-0204