Takisan-ji Oni Matsuri | Feb. 15

Experience Ancient Fire and Demons

Just a short journey from Nagoya lies one of Japan's most dramatic traditional festivals, where fire-wielding demons and centuries-old rituals come together in an unforgettable spectacle. The Takisan-ji Oni Matsuri (滝山寺鬼まつり) offers a rare glimpse into Japan's mystical past, combining heart-pounding action with deep spiritual significance.

A Festival of Fire and Fortune
Dating back to the Kamakura period (1185-1333), this annual celebration transforms the peaceful Takisan-ji Temple into a realm where demons dance with flames. The festival serves multiple purposes: praying for peace, ensuring bountiful harvests, and warding off evil spirits. The climactic moment features oni (demons) brandishing massive burning torches inside the temple, filling the ancient hall with an overwhelming display of fire and energy.

What to Expect
The festival begins at 15:00 with a dramatic torch procession, as twelve chosen men carry enormous flaming torches from the temple's Niomon Gate. The firelight flickers against the darkening sky, casting eerie shadows on the temple's ancient wooden structures. The rhythmic chants of the participants echo through the air, setting the tone for an intense evening.

As dusk approaches, traditional ceremonies intensify the atmosphere. Monks and priests, clad in intricate robes, perform a Buddhist memorial service, their chants harmonizing with the distant sound of taiko drums. This solemn moment serves as a spiritual prelude to the night's fiery climax.

At 18:30, the bean-throwing ritual begins. Monks and festival officials hurl handfuls of roasted soybeans into the crowd while chanting, "Oni wa soto! Fuku wa uchi!" (Demons out! Fortune in!). The audience eagerly participates, catching the beans for good luck and protection against misfortune.

The main event kicks off at 19:45 when demon-masked performers enter the temple wielding blazing torches. The heat is overwhelming as flames engulf the temple's interior, their roaring sound blending with the deep, resonant beats of taiko drums. The oni leap and whirl, their fearsome faces illuminated by the inferno, creating a mesmerizing interplay of fire and shadow. Smoke swirls through the temple, adding an otherworldly dimension to the performance. As the demons' wild movements grow more frenzied, the crowd watches in breathless anticipation, fully immersed in this ritualistic battle between light and darkness.

The Takisan-ji Oni Matsuri is one of Japan's most visually dramatic and spiritually rich festivals. Located in Okazaki, close to Nagoya, it's a perfect chance to dive into Japan's deep-rooted traditions, experience an exhilarating fire ritual, and enjoy an evening of unforgettable cultural immersion.

Festival Schedule

Here's a breakdown of the key events you won't want to miss:

• 15:00 – Torch Procession:
  Twelve men carrying large torches begin their march from Niomon Gate, a dramatic sight as the flames illuminate the path.
• 17:30 – Buddhist Memorial Service:
  A solemn ceremony inside the temple.
• 18:20 – Ofudafuri Ceremony:
  A traditional ritual for good fortune.
• 18:30 – Bean-Throwing:
  A Setsubun-style event symbolizing the driving away of evil spirits.
• 19:00 – Niwa Matsuri:
  Preparations for the climactic fire ceremony.
• 19:45 – 20:00 – Fire Festival (Climax):
  Demons enter the temple with enormous flaming torches, swirling and dancing as fire engulfs the hall—a scene straight out of a mythical battle.

The Details

Takisan-ji Oni Matsuri
(滝山寺鬼まつり)
Date: Sat, Feb. 15|
Location:
Takisan-ji Temple (滝山寺)
岡崎市滝町山籠107, Okazaki City, Aichi Prefecture
Contact: 0564-46-2296

Website

Getting There

From Nagoya, reaching the festival is straightforward.

By Rail:

1. Take the Meitetsu Nagoya Line to Higashi Okazaki Station (about 30 minutes).
2. From Higashi Okazaki Station, board a Meitetsu Bus bound for Takisan-ji or Sogo Ground.
3. Get off at the Takisan-ji-shita bus stop and walk about 10 minutes to the temple.

By Car:

• Parking is NOT available at Takisan-ji Temple on the day of the festival.
• Instead, use the temporary parking at Okazaki City Ryuhoku General Sports Ground (岡崎市龍北総合運動場).
• A shuttle bus runs continuously from the parking area to Takisan-ji from 17:00 – 19:30

Essential Tips for Foreign Visitors

• Dress warmly: February in Okazaki can be chilly at night, so layers are recommended.
• Arrive early: The temple grounds get crowded quickly, and the best viewing spots go fast.
• Be prepared for smoke and heat: During the fire festival's climax, thick smoke fills the temple, and the heat from the torches is intense.
• Watch for flying sparks: Sparks and embers from the torches can land on spectators, so it is advisable to wear non-flammable clothing.
• Cash only: If you plan to buy food or souvenirs, bring yen—credit cards may not be accepted at festival stalls.
• Consider bringing a face mask: If you are sensitive to smoke, a mask can help.

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