Kumano Nachi Taisha, a constituent asset of the UNESCO World Heritage Site "Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range," will hold its annual grand festival "Nachi no Ogi Matsuri" (Nachi Fire Festival) on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, at Hirou Shrine, the site of the sacred Nachi Falls.
About the Nachi no Ogi Matsuri
According to legend, 12 deities descended upon Nachi Falls (那智御瀧) in ancient times. In 317 CE (the 5th year of Emperor Nintoku's reign), these deities were enshrined at Kumano Nachi Taisha on the midslope of Nachi-san. The site at the base of the falls became Hirou Shrine — a subsidiary shrine where the waterfall itself is venerated as a divine body — and it continues to draw deep faith to this day.
The Nachi no Ogi Matsuri is the annual ritual in which these 12 deities make their once-a-year return to Hirou Shrine at the base of the falls. Counted among Japan's Three Great Fire Festivals, it captivates pilgrims and visitors from across Japan and the world.
Event Details
- Name: Kumano Nachi Taisha Annual Grand Festival "Nachi no Ogi Matsuri"
- Date: Tuesday, July 14, 2026, 10:00 AM – 3:30 PM
- Venue: Kumano Nachi Taisha and Hirou Shrine (1 Nachisan, Nachikatsuura Town, Higashimuro District, Wakayama Prefecture)
- Organizer: Kumano Nachi Taisha
Festival Schedule and Highlights
10:00 AM — Ceremony at the Main Shrine
11:00 AM — Yamato-mai Dance Offering
A performance of "Yamato-mai" dance will be held on a specially erected stage within the shrine grounds. The graceful movements and ancient music of this ritual dance transport visitors to the world of Japanese mythology amid the serene atmosphere of Nachi-san.
11:30 AM — "Nachi no Dengaku" Performance
Also on the dedicated stage, "Nachi no Dengaku" will be performed — a ritual dance designated as both a nationally Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property and a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. Characterized by its distinctive rhythms, colorful costumes, and powerful movements, this ancient prayer for a bountiful harvest and peace has been passed down through the generations.
1:00 PM — Procession Ceremony
1:30 PM — Fan-Standing Ritual
1:50 PM — Departure of the Three Messengers / Worship Toward Hikari-ga-mine Peak
Approx. 2:00 PM — Fire Ceremony and Fan Praise Ritual (Highlight)
The fire ceremony beginning around 2:00 PM is the climax of the Nachi no Ogi Matsuri. Each of the 12 deities is transferred into a fan-shaped mikoshi modeled after Nachi Falls, which then slowly descends the stone-step approach to Hirou Shrine at the base of the falls. Along the path, 12 massive torches — each weighing over 50 kg — blaze brilliantly to greet the mikoshi, their flames purifying the sacred way. The contrast between the white spray of Nachi Falls and the roaring torches creates a stunning "festival of water and fire," drawing photographers and visitors from across Japan and around the world.
Visiting and Admission
- Open to: All visitors
- Advance registration: Not required
- Admission: Free (the shrine precinct is open to all)
Large crowds are expected on the day; plan to arrive with extra time.
Access
Address: 1 Nachisan, Nachikatsuura Town, Higashimuro District, Wakayama Prefecture
By public transport:
- Take the JR Kisei Main Line to Kii-Katsuura Station, then board a local bus toward Nachisan and alight at the "Nachisan" stop; approximately 15–20 minutes on foot.
- From accommodations in Nachikatsuura Town, approximately 20–30 minutes by taxi.
By car:
- Approximately 90 minutes from Susami-Minami IC on the Hanwa Expressway via National Route 42.
- Parking near the shrine precinct is limited.
Visitor Tips
- Stay well hydrated and wear a hat or carry a parasol against the summer heat.
- The route involves many stone steps and some slippery sections; wear comfortable, well-fitted footwear.
- During the fire ceremony, large torches produce sparks and open flames — remain within designated viewing areas.
- In the event of severe weather or natural disasters, parts of the ceremony may be altered or cancelled for safety reasons.
Combining with Other Attractions
July marks the start of Japan's summer leisure season. Nachikatsuura is rich in natural experiences that pair well with the Nachi no Ogi Matsuri, including Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trail hikes, hot springs, and beachside swimming. With its timing just before summer vacation and the Marine Day holiday, the festival serves as a natural centerpiece for a multi-day itinerary combining World Heritage exploration, onsen, and the Nachikatsuura coastline.
