Visit Wakayama

Hashiramatsu: A Flaming Tradition Lighting Up the Summer Sky in Kitayama village

Hashiramatsu is a spectacular summer ritual held during Obon in Kitayama Village — a one-of-a-kind fire ceremony you won’t want to miss.

A towering 20-meter wooden pole is erected, topped with a basket woven from straw.

As night falls, participants light torches and take aim, throwing fire into the basket high above. 

When a flame successfully lands inside, fireworks burst into the sky from the top — an unforgettable moment of color, excitement, and celebration!

If you're the lucky one to light the basket, you’ll even win a cash prize — talk about a hot shot!

The fire signals the start of Kitayama’s traditional Bon Odori dance.

 Sung in the local dialect and passed down through generations, these dances are performed by the village preservation society — and visitors are welcome to join in. 

Let’s dance together under the stars and celebrate summer, Kitayama-style.

【Scheduled for 2025】
Date: Saturday, August 9
Summer Festival Starts: Around 6:00 PM
Hashiramatsu Ceremony: After sunset
Location: Okutoro Park (next to Roadside Station Okutoro), Kitayama Village, Wakayama

Hosted by: Kitayama Youth Association