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Hiwatari-sai (Fire-walking Ceremony) at Yakuoin Temple - Tokyo Hotels .com

Yakuoin Temple, Tokyo

One of the most spectacular religious ceremonies in Japan is the Hiwatari-sai at Yakuoin Temple, one of Tokyo's oldest and most important Buddhist temples. This firewalking ceremony is an exercise in austerity for the yamabushi (the temple's monks). The ceremony is open for public viewing -- and participation!

After praying for the well-being of family and oneself, the monks walk over a smoldering path known as the sacred goma fire. Anyone who wishes may follow, which is not as daunting as it sounds: By the time the monks are finished, the path is merely warm to the touch. The temple stands in a beautiful and tranquil location near the top of Mount Takao in Hachioji City, a suburb of Tokyo.