DAISEN Natsuyamabiraki Festival 2025
The 79th DAISEN Natsuyamabiraki Festival on June 7th
The Mythical World Centered Around Izumo
When people think of Japanese mythology, they often associate it with the Izumo region. However, the mythological settings described in the Izumo myths are not limited to Shimane Prefecture alone.
Tottori Prefecture, too, is steeped in history and closely tied to many ancient myths. These stories have been passed down through generations and remain deeply rooted in the daily lives of local communities across the region.
One especially symbolic location in the world of Izumo mythology is Mount Daisen.
In ancient times, this sacred mountain was revered as “Ōkami-dake” (Mountain of the Great God) and “Hi-no-kami-dake” (Mountain of the Fire God), and was believed to be a divine realm. Countless mythological episodes have been handed down about this mountain and its spiritual significance.
At the end of an 800-meter-long stone-paved path—the longest of its kind in Japan—stands Ōgamiyama Shrine Okunomiya, a site that brings this mythical world into the present.
The shrine building is one of the largest examples of Gongen-zukuri architecture in the country. Its origins trace back to the time when monks would climb Mount Daisen for spiritual training, and a simple worship hall was built for their devotions.
Following the Meiji-era policy of separating Buddhism and Shintoism, the shrine dedicated to Daichimyō Gongen was relocated from Daisen-ji Temple and became today's Ōgamiyama Shrine Okunomiya.
The shrine features three “best in Japan” distinctions: the 800-meter natural stone approach, the grandeur of the Gongen-style shrine architecture, and the stunning lacquered byakudan (sandalwood) finish of the worship hall.
Not Just Izumo – The Spiritual Time Breathing in the Sacred Peak of Mount Daisen
Mount Daisen’s Ōgamiyama Shrine Okunomiya, where many hikers and mountain devotees gather, becomes most vibrant during the year’s most important event. Every year, on the first weekend of June, the Daisen Summer Mountain Opening Festival is held, resurrecting the ancient times when the mountain was revered as Hi-no-kami-dake (Mountain of the Fire God). This year marks the 79th celebration of this sacred ceremony, which prays for the safety of climbers.
One of the highlights that particularly attracts visitors is the Torchlight Procession held on the night before the main festival. After the religious rites at the shrine, people carrying the sacred flame march down the stone-paved path toward the final destination at Hakuroza. It’s a breathtaking sight—a procession of fire, a river of flame flowing through the night, which is a once-in-a-lifetime experience to witness.
The procession is like a fleeting river of fire, and every year, visitors from across Japan and abroad are drawn to this magnificent and sacred display of flame, immersing themselves in the unforgettable night of spiritual awe. The experience leaves a lasting impression and deep emotion on all who witness it.
On the following day, a Summit Festival (prayer for safety) is held at the summit of Mount Daisen. With the melting snow, this ceremony signals the official start of the summer climbing season on the mountain.
How to Participate
★On sale from 8 May at Asoview.
Ticket for participation in the 79th Daisen Natsuyamabiraki Festival eve Festival Procession(with commemorative tenugui hand towel and good-luck charm)
Tickets for participation in the torchlight procession are available via Asoview! online payment system. Please follow the steps below to purchase tickets.
⇩⇩⇩Click here to purchase tickets (jump to the AssoView ticket purchase page)⇩⇩⇩
①Select 7 June 2025 from the calendar.
*The entry time includes the time of the ticket check.
②Please select the number of tickets you wish to purchase.
Once tickets for the torchlight procession have been purchased, cancellations and changes to the number of tickets purchased cannot be accepted. Please make sure that you have purchased enough tickets for the number of people participating in the procession.
③Fill in the required information and process the payment.
Please note that tickets will not be sold on the day of the procession, so please make sure to purchase tickets in advance if you wish to enter.
☆Only 800 tickets are available for general torchlight procession participation☆
Cancellation policy No cancellations, refunds or changes will be accepted, so please make sure you have purchased the correct tickets. On the day of the event, the QR code issued at the time of purchase will be used to check entry, so please remember to bring your smartphone or a copy of the QR code with you.
Translated with DeepL.com (free version)
