19/08/2026
Last Saturday, the staff at Osaka English House had the chance to visit Kyoto and experience one of Japan’s most spectacular summer traditions — the Daimonji Fire Festival (Gozan Okuribi)!
The trip was kindly organised for us by a friend of Osaka English House, who wanted us to experience this unique piece of Japanese culture for ourselves. We’re incredibly grateful for the opportunity!
Held every year on August 16th, Gozan Okuribi marks the end of Obon, a traditional Japanese period when it is believed that the spirits of ancestors return to visit their families. To guide the spirits back to the other world, huge bonfires are lit on five mountains surrounding Kyoto.
The most famous is Daimonji (大文字), meaning “large character,” where hundreds of fires are arranged to form the giant character for “great.” Four other mountains are also illuminated with enormous symbols, including Myoho, Funagata, Torii-gate, and Hidaridaimonji
As darkness fell, the mountains around Kyoto suddenly began to glow, creating an incredible sight across the city. 🌃🔥 It was amazing to see such an ancient tradition still bringing people together today and for the OEH team to have the chance to experience Gozan Okuribi firsthand! 🇯🇵
KyotoFestival
