Kyoto Gozan Okuribi 2026 Guide | History, Mountain Locations & Best Photography Spots
- Sora Campers Japan
- Aug 13
- 4 min read
Every summer, Kyoto says goodbye to the Obon season with one of Japan’s most breathtaking traditions — Kyoto Gozan Okuribi (京都五山送り火), also known as the Kyoto Five Mountain Bonfires.
On the evening of August 16, giant bonfires are lit one by one across the mountains surrounding Kyoto, illuminating the night sky with enormous Chinese characters and symbolic shapes. More than just a spectacular sight, Gozan Okuribi is a centuries-old Buddhist ceremony held to guide the spirits of ancestors back to the afterlife at the end of Obon.
If you’re planning a summer trip to Kyoto, this is one of the most unforgettable cultural events you’ll ever experience.
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What is Kyoto Gozan Okuribi?
Many visitors think Gozan Okuribi is simply a fire festival.
In reality, it is a deeply meaningful religious ceremony.
According to Japanese tradition, ancestors return to visit their families during the Obon holiday. On the final evening, August 16, enormous sacred fires are lit on five mountains surrounding Kyoto to guide their spirits peacefully back to the spiritual world.
Although the exact origin remains unknown, historians believe the tradition has continued for several hundred years and has become one of Kyoto’s most important annual cultural events.
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Gozan Okuribi Lighting Schedule
The bonfires are lit in sequence, approximately five minutes apart.
Time Bonfire
8:00 PM Daimonji (大文字)
8:05 PM Myo (妙) & Ho (法)
8:10 PM Funagata (船形)
8:15 PM Hidari Daimonji (左大文字)
8:20 PM Toriigata (鳥居形)
Each bonfire burns for around 30 minutes, with around 8:30 PM offering the rare opportunity to see multiple fires glowing across Kyoto at the same time.
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The Five Mountains of Gozan Okuribi
Daimonji (Mt. Nyoigatake)
The enormous “大” (Dai – Great) character is the most famous of all five bonfires.
Located on Mt. Nyoigatake in eastern Kyoto, it stands approximately 160 metres tall and is the symbol most people associate with Kyoto’s summer.
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Myo & Ho (Matsugasaki)
Unlike the other bonfires, Myo (妙) and Ho (法) are lit on two neighbouring mountains.
Together they represent “Myoho”, an important Buddhist phrase meaning “Wonderful Dharma.”
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Funagata (Boat Shape)
Located on Mt. Funayama in northern Kyoto, the bonfire forms the outline of a traditional boat.
The boat symbolizes carrying the spirits of ancestors back to the Pure Land, making it one of the most meaningful designs in the ceremony.
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Hidari Daimonji
Many visitors don’t realize Kyoto actually has two giant “Dai” characters.
The second, known as Hidari Daimonji (Left Daimonji), is located on Mt. Okitayama in northwestern Kyoto.
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Toriigata (Torii Gate)
Located near Arashiyama on Mt. Mandara, this giant torii gate is the final bonfire to be lit.
Because of its location near the Katsura River, it creates one of the most photogenic scenes during Gozan Okuribi.
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Best Places to Watch & Photograph Kyoto Gozan Okuribi
1. Togetsukyo Bridge, Arashiyama ★★★★★ (Best Overall)
If we could recommend only one location, this would be it.
Every year on August 16, the Arashiyama Toro Nagashi (Lantern Floating Ceremony) takes place on the Katsura River.
Hundreds of floating lanterns drift peacefully downstream while, at 8:20 PM, the Toriigata bonfire is lit on the nearby mountain.
This is one of the very few places where visitors can experience two ancient Obon traditions at the same time—floating lanterns on the river and sacred fires on the mountains.
For photographers, this creates an unforgettable composition combining lantern reflections, mountain silhouettes and Kyoto’s final bonfire.
Photography Tips
* Arrive 1–2 hours before sunset.
* Bring a tripod for long-exposure photography.
* Capture the lanterns during blue hour before the Toriigata bonfire is lit.
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2. Kyoto Imperial Palace Park (Kyoto Gyoen)
One of the easiest places for first-time visitors to enjoy the famous Daimonji bonfire.
The park is spacious, family-friendly and less crowded than many riverside locations.
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3. Kamo River (Sanjo – Demachiyanagi)
Watching Daimonji from the banks of the Kamo River is a favourite among Kyoto locals.
Bring a picnic blanket, relax by the river and enjoy one of Kyoto’s most atmospheric summer evenings.
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4. Funaokayama Park
A favourite among photographers because several bonfires can be seen from one location.
If you’re hoping to capture multiple mountain fires in a single frame, this is one of Kyoto’s best viewpoints.
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5. Kyoto Station Skywalk
A convenient option for visitors staying near Kyoto Station.
Although farther from the mountains, it still offers a clear view of Daimonji without leaving the city centre.
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6. Shogunzuka Observatory (Best for Drivers)
If you’re travelling by rental car, Shogunzuka Observatory offers panoramic views across Kyoto.
The combination of city lights and mountain bonfires creates spectacular night photography opportunities.
Parking is limited, so arriving early is highly recommended.
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Experience Kyoto Beyond the City
Instead of staying in downtown Kyoto, many travellers choose to camp in nearby areas such as Arashiyama, northern Kyoto or Lake Biwa.
After spending the evening watching Gozan Okuribi, you can return to a peaceful campsite, fall asleep under the stars and wake up surrounded by nature.
For families and road-trippers, combining Kyoto Gozan Okuribi with a camping adventure creates a unique way to experience Japan’s summer traditions.
At Sora Campers, we believe the best journeys aren’t only about visiting famous landmarks—they’re about slowing down, sharing unforgettable moments with family and experiencing Japan’s culture in a deeper way.
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