Yoshida Fire Festival, Traditional fire festival at Kitaguchi Hongū Fuji Sengen Shrine in Fujiyoshida, Japan.
The Yoshida Fire Festival takes place over two days in August in Fujiyoshida, using more than 70 pine torches about three meters tall that illuminate a two-kilometer route through the city.
The festival began roughly 400 years ago to appease mountain deities thought responsible for Mount Fuji eruptions and to give thanks for safe climbing seasons.
Local people carry two sacred portable shrines through the Kamiyoshida neighborhood, decorating them with traditional pampas grass bundles that play an important role in the celebration.
The event is accessible from various points around the city, and crowds gather along the illuminated route where you can walk comfortably through the procession. Wear comfortable shoes since you will be walking for several kilometers.
During the procession, participants throw one of the portable shrines onto the ground, recreating the sound of volcanic tremors as a surprising part of the ritual.
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