Fukushima Travel – Fire-Walking and Goma Rituals in Otama Village

From September 13 to 15, 2025, the serene mountain temple of Endogataki Fudo-son in Otama Village, Fukushima Prefecture, hosted its annual Autumn Grand Festival. Nestled deep in the forests of the Tohoku region, this sacred site is renowned for its spiritual atmosphere and dramatic rituals that have been passed down through generations.

The highlight of the festival took place on September 14, when powerful Goma fire rituals (護摩祈祷) and the breathtaking fire-walking ceremony (火渡りの行) were performed. Flames rose as priests conducted prayers for safety, prosperity, and good health, while participants—including visitors—were given the rare chance to walk barefoot across smoldering embers. This extraordinary experience allows participants to confront fear, purify themselves, and feel a profound sense of spiritual renewal.

The Endogataki Fudo-son Autumn Festival is more than a religious ceremony—it is a cultural tradition that connects people to the natural beauty and spiritual energy of Ohtama Village, one of the member towns of Japan’s Most Beautiful Villages Association. The temple’s secluded setting, hidden among mountains and waterfalls, adds to the sense of awe and reverence that visitors experience during the event.

Traveling to this remote area can be difficult without a car, but Deep Japan Tours offers guided trips that make it easy to witness and even participate in this unforgettable festival. By joining a tour, you can fully experience the spiritual heart of Fukushima while enjoying the support of knowledgeable guides.

For travelers seeking a truly unique and authentic cultural experience in Tohoku, the Endogataki Fudo-son Autumn Grand Festival offers an inspiring blend of tradition, nature, and spirituality—an event that will stay with you long after the flames fade.

https://www.vill.otama.fukushima.jp/kankou_shiseki/spot/jinja_bukaku/endougatakifudouson/