Hiwatari Festival (Hiwatari Festival)

Walking barefoot through burning coals and smoking may sound scary, but this is one of Tokyo's unique festivals. The Hiwatary Festival, also known as walking barefoot through fire, takes place on the 2nd Sunday of March at Mount Takao. Since ancient times, Mount Takao has been worshiped by the Shugendu followers, who use fire as part of their practice. They set up a pyre in the middle of the open ground to burn things that symbolize evil and good fortune. When the fire breaks out, the Shugendo devotees will throw everyone's prayer sticks into the fire and this is the most popular ritual. Walking barefoot on small fires and hot ash heaps with the wish to avoid misfortune and receive a lot of luck and health for themselves and the gods will grant them requests, once they endure. challenge by going barefoot. In addition to the rituals, visitors can also admire the monk's performances such as archery, martial arts competition... Around Mount Takao, there are also many other attractions such as hot springs and monkey park.... you will pay a certain fee when visiting those places

Open: March

Ticket price: Free to join the festival