Daimonji Gozan Okuribi
SeasonalKansai(Kyoto)
Annual eventDates
Venue
Kyoto mountains (five mountains surrounding the city)
Admission
Free
Crowd Level
Extremely crowded
Photos
Daimonji Gozan Okuribi: Kyoto's iconic mountain bonfire ritual. Aug 16, 2026. Five giant kanji characters blaze on mountainsides at dusk.
Daimonji Gozan Okuribi is Kyoto's spectacular fire festival marking the end of Obon, when the spirits of ancestors are sent back to the spirit world. Giant bonfires in the shapes of kanji characters and symbols are lit on five mountains surrounding Kyoto, with the most famous being the Daimonji (大) character on Mount Nyoigatake. The fires burn for approximately 30 minutes, creating an awe-inspiring sight visible across the city.
At a Glance
- Type
- Seasonal
- Dates
- 2026-08-16 – 2026-08-16
- Venue
- Kyoto mountains (five mountains surrounding the city)
- Status
- Scheduled
- Crowd Level
- Extremely crowded
- Admission
- Free
- Annual event
- Annual
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Daimonji Gozan Okuribi take place?
Daimonji Gozan Okuribi takes place from 2026-08-16 to 2026-08-16.
Where is Daimonji Gozan Okuribi held?
Daimonji Gozan Okuribi is held at Kyoto mountains (five mountains surrounding the city) in Kyoto, Japan.
Where can I confirm the official status of Daimonji Gozan Okuribi?
Use the official source for the latest schedule, route changes, and cancellation updates: https://www.kyokanko.or.jp/gozan/.
What is the current status of Daimonji Gozan Okuribi?
The current listing status is scheduled. Last checked: 2026-08-04.
Is Daimonji Gozan Okuribi free to attend?
Yes, Daimonji Gozan Okuribi is free to attend.
What is the admission fee for Daimonji Gozan Okuribi?
The admission fee for Daimonji Gozan Okuribi is ¥0.
How crowded is Daimonji Gozan Okuribi?
The typical crowd level is extreme.
What are the highlights of Daimonji Gozan Okuribi?
Giant Daimonji (大) character blazing on Mount Nyoigatake; Five sequential mountain bonfires lighting up the Kyoto skyline; Solemn spiritual atmosphere marking the end of Obon
How do I get to Daimonji Gozan Okuribi?
Best viewing spots include the banks of the Kamogawa River, Yoshida-yama area, and Funaokayama Park. Demachiyanagi Station (Keihan/Eizan Railway) provides convenient access to Kamogawa viewing points.
What should I know before attending Daimonji Gozan Okuribi?
The first fire (Daimonji) is lit at 8:00 PM, with each subsequent mountain lit at 5-10 minute intervals. Secure your viewing spot by 6 PM. Kamogawa riverbanks offer views of multiple mountains. Restaurants along Kamogawa offer special viewing dinner plans — book months in advance.
Highlights
Giant Daimonji (大) character blazing on Mount Nyoigatake; Five sequential mountain bonfires lighting up the Kyoto skyline; Solemn spiritual atmosphere marking the end of Obon
Access
Best viewing spots include the banks of the Kamogawa River, Yoshida-yama area, and Funaokayama Park. Demachiyanagi Station (Keihan/Eizan Railway) provides convenient access to Kamogawa viewing points.
Tips for Visitors
The first fire (Daimonji) is lit at 8:00 PM, with each subsequent mountain lit at 5-10 minute intervals. Secure your viewing spot by 6 PM. Kamogawa riverbanks offer views of multiple mountains. Restaurants along Kamogawa offer special viewing dinner plans — book months in advance.
Location
📍 Kyoto mountains (five mountains surrounding the city)