The Nara Daimonji Okuribi Festival

A large bonfire illuminates the night in Nara, honoring those who have passed away and praying for peace.

※Unauthorized reproduction of images on this page is prohibited

The Daimonji Okuribi, held every August 15th, is a traditional event that illuminates the summer nights of Nara. Volunteers initiated it in 1960 to honor the souls of those who died in the war. Today, it has become a popular tourist attraction that lights up the summer nights of the ancient city, prays for world peace, and commemorates all those who perished in disasters and wars.


The "Dai" symbolizes the universe and is believed to eliminate the 75 earthly desires that reside in people's hearts. It is recognized as one of the largest Daimonji festivals in Japan and can be viewed from various locations in Nara City, including the Heijo Palace Site and Nara Park.


Before the "Dai" character is lit on Mount Takamado, a joint Shinto and Buddhist memorial service is held at Tobihino, situated within the grounds of Kasugataisha Shrine. The service is conducted by Shinto priests of Kasugataisha Shrine and monks from local temples. It represents a rare form of praying for peace that transcends religion and sect in the country.


* The contents may vary based on the situation. Additional details will be provided on the Nara City Tourism Association website at a later date.

Related articles

General Information

Event period
Aug. 15 Bonfire 8:00 p.m.
Event remarks

Tobihino,Takamadoyama

Recommended

Recommended articles

Why are there deer in Nara Park? Learn how to interact with them, tourist etiquette, and historical background.
Why are there deer in Nara Park? Learn how to interact with them, tourist etiquette, and historical background.
https://narashikanko.or.jp/en/feature/deer
All About the Great Buddha
All About the Great Buddha
https://narashikanko.or.jp/en/feature/daibutsu
A selection of 21 recommended gourmet foods in Nara. Featuring a range from classics to local specialties and famous products, popular sweets!
A selection of 21 recommended gourmet foods in Nara. Featuring a range from classics to local specialties and famous products, popular sweets!
https://narashikanko.or.jp/en/feature/gourmet
Nara's World Heritage Sites
Nara's World Heritage Sites
https://narashikanko.or.jp/en/feature/world-heritage
All about the highlights of Naramachi, which has retained traces from Edo, Meiji, and post-war periods.
All about the highlights of Naramachi, which has retained traces from Edo, Meiji, and post-war periods.
https://narashikanko.or.jp/en/feature/naramachi
Nara for first-timers - a thorough guide to Nara City, from history, highlights, and the popular, to hidden gems! Recommended sightseeing spots, gourmet food, access information, and more.
Nara for first-timers - a thorough guide to Nara City, from history, highlights, and the popular, to hidden gems! Recommended sightseeing spots, gourmet food, access information, and more.
https://narashikanko.or.jp/en/feature/narashi
The Four Seasons in Nara
The Four Seasons in Nara
https://narashikanko.or.jp/en/feature/seasons
Find out all about the attractions of Nara Park, from recommended ways to go around it, to the gourmet highlights and accommodations nearby.
Find out all about the attractions of Nara Park, from recommended ways to go around it, to the gourmet highlights and accommodations nearby.
https://narashikanko.or.jp/en/feature/narapark
Takigi O-Noh: A mysterious world lit by firelight
Takigi O-Noh: A mysterious world lit by firelight
https://narashikanko.or.jp/en/feature/takigiono
A selection of 24 recommended gifts from Nara. Featuring famous, classic, and popular items from Nara!
A selection of 24 recommended gifts from Nara. Featuring famous, classic, and popular items from Nara!
https://narashikanko.or.jp/en/feature/souvenir

You Might Also Like

Nara Tokae Festival (2024)
Nara Tokae Festival (2024)
https://narashikanko.or.jp/en/spot/detail_10194.html
Chugen Mantoro Festival/Kasugataisha Shrine
Chugen Mantoro Festival/Kasugataisha Shrine
https://narashikanko.or.jp/en/spot/detail_10262.html
Takigi O-Noh: A mysterious world lit by firelight
Takigi O-Noh: A mysterious world lit by firelight
https://narashikanko.or.jp/en/feature/takigiono
The Four Seasons in Nara
The Four Seasons in Nara
https://narashikanko.or.jp/en/feature/seasons
Ukimido Gazebo
Ukimido Gazebo
https://narashikanko.or.jp/en/spot/detail_10105.html
Kasuga no Otondo / Tobihino, Kasugataisha Shrine grounds
Kasuga no Otondo / Tobihino, Kasugataisha Shrine grounds
https://narashikanko.or.jp/en/spot/detail_10283.html
Deer Antler-Cutting Ceremony (Shika no Tsunokiri)
Deer Antler-Cutting Ceremony (Shika no Tsunokiri)
https://narashikanko.or.jp/en/spot/detail_10205.html
Yakushiji Temple
Yakushiji Temple
https://narashikanko.or.jp/en/spot/detail_10007.html
Nara Okuyama Driveway - Toll road leading to the summit of Mt. Wakakusa
Nara Okuyama Driveway - Toll road leading to the summit of Mt. Wakakusa
https://narashikanko.or.jp/en/spot/detail_10115.html
Tobihino
Tobihino
https://narashikanko.or.jp/en/spot/detail_10125.html
to top