Hiwatari Matsuri｜火渡り祭

Tanukidani-san Fudō-in is a temple that eschews the more traditional Buddhist sect system in favor of the ascetic nature worship of Shugendō. A practice that combines various Buddhist, Shinto, and Taoist beliefs, Shugendō can be translated as "the way to spiritual power through discipline".

One of the rituals associated both with Shugendō and Fudō Myō'ō worship is the Hiwatari Matsuri, or Fire Walking Festival. In this ceremony, goma (wooden prayer sticks) are assembled into a pyre to be ritualistically burned, and the still flaming ashes and remnants are then raked flat. 

Shugenja (Shugendō followers) lead the way by walking barefoot across the hot ground before helping the public do the same. This fascinating ritual is not only interesting for its religious components, but is also a challenge for anyone who would like to participate themselves. Can you handle the heat?

A popular charm to purchase at this festival is one that is said to ward your home from being damaged by fire.