Gozan-no-okuribi: Ceremonial Bonfires Give Ancestors Safe Passage

The Japanese believe their ancestors' spirits return from the other world to visit during Obon in mid-August. The Gozan-no-okuribi ceremony to send them off is held in Kyoto at the end of Obon on August 16. Bonfires are lit on 5 Kyoto mountains as guides for the spirits to find their way back safely. Watch the locals' prepare for this fiery traditional event in the Matsugasaki area of Kyoto, where 2 of the bonfires are lit, and discover the ancient customs of the living and the dead.

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S2 · E16

Fushimi Inari Taisha: A Manifestation of Prayers to the Deities on the Mountain

Thu, Oct 2, 2014