Nasu Seshoseki Gojinka Festival

Nasu is known as the largest volcanic zone in Japan. Several large eruptions in the past have claimed many victims here. The villagers in the neighboring area started to cleanse themselves to appease the anger of the mountain, visit Nasu Yuzen Shrine, light the fire of the Avici hell and worship this as gojinka (sacred fire). This then became established as an event to pray for a bumper harvest and sound health before long.

The Gojinka Festival features a parade from Nasu Yuzen Shrine to Sesshoseki by participants attired in white clothing with torches. A large torch (gojinka) is then lit to create a fantastic atmosphere.

While the gojinka burns, the folk entertainment of hakumen konmo kyubikitusne drums is presented at Sesshoseki – the site of the legend of kyubinokitusne (nine-tailed fox). The general public can also participate in the torch parade which involves a walk through the dark.

Location Map

Basic Information

Address	Yumoto， Nasu-machi， Tochigi
Telephone Number	0287-76-2619
Website	https://www.nasukogen.org/
Date	May 26 (Sun)， 2024
Time	2：30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Venue	Sesshoseki (Yumoto， Nasumachi)
DIRECTIONS	35 minutes from JR Kuroiso Station by buses bound for Nasu Yumoto Onsen to last bus stop, then a 5-minute walk.
Map Code	203 330 728*25

Nasu Area

The Nasu area, in the northeastern part of the prefecture, is famous for the imperial villa located there, and is one of Japan’s premier resort areas with its expansive highlands. The climate has allowed the development of a thriving dairy industry, and while there, you can visit a dairy farm that is open to tourists and offers delicious sweets made from milk, such as soft-serve ice cream and cheesecake. There are also many family-friendly facilities like Safari Park, amusement parks, and hot spring facilities like Shiobara Onsen.