On the night of January 7th, the winter chill of Kurume City is shattered by a roar—not of thunder, but of fire. The “Oniyo” (Fire Festival) at Daizenji Tamataregu Shrine is not merely a festival; it is a 1,600-year-old exorcism where brave men bathe in a shower of sparks to cleanse the community of evil.
Designated as a National Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property and ranked as one of Japan’s Three Major Fire Festivals, the Oniyo is a visceral display of faith and fortitude. For the global traveler, it offers a rare opportunity to witness an ancient Shinto ritual that feels dangerously alive—a spectacle where six massive torches, burning with the “Devil Fire,” are paraded through the darkness by hundreds of loincloth-clad men.
🔥 Unveiling the Essence: The 1,600-Year Flame
The festival’s origins date back to the reign of Emperor Kinmei (approx. 539–571 AD), initially established to pray for the end of a devastating epidemic. The fire used in the festival is no ordinary flame; it is the “Devil Fire” (Onibi), which has been secretly guarded in the temple for seven days prior to the event, building spiritual potency before its release.
The Six Giants
The protagonists of the night are the O-Taimatsu (Great Torches).
- Scale: Each torch measures 13 meters in length, 1 meter in diameter, and weighs approximately 1.2 tons.
- Construction: Made of bamboo bundles, they are prepared by the parishioners on January 4th.
- The Ritual: When these behemoths are lit, they do not just burn; they erupt, turning the shrine grounds into a sea of red light and drifting embers.
🏃 Your Insider Odyssey: The Night of January 7th
The festival is a day-long affair, but the energy crescendos at night.
The “Naked” Procession
Despite the freezing January temperatures, hundreds of men dressed only in shimekomi (loincloths) gather to carry the torches. They use large oak poles called “Karimata” to lift and maneuver the burning giants around the shrine precincts. The steam rising from their bodies mixes with the smoke, creating a primal atmosphere unique to Kyushu’s fire festivals.
The Rain of Sparks
As the torches are paraded, burning embers rain down upon the crowd.
- The Belief: Do not brush them off too quickly! It is said that if the falling ash or sparks (glittering like gold dust) land on you, you will be blessed with good health and protection from illness for the coming year.
- Safety Tip: While lucky, the sparks are hot. Wear cotton or wool clothing (which doesn’t melt) and consider a hat or hood to protect your hair.
💎 The Elite Navigator’s Codex: Strategic Insights
- Date: Always held on January 7th. For 2026, this falls on a Wednesday.
- Timing: The festival runs from 13:00, but the Lighting of the Great Torches occurs around 21:00 (9:00 PM). Arrive by 19:30 to secure a viewing spot.
- Paid Seating: For a stress-free view, limited paid box seats are available (~¥2,000). These often go on sale in early December; contact the shrine office directly.
- Access: The shrine is a short 5-minute walk from Nishitetsu Daizenji Station. Trains will be crowded, so plan your return trip in advance.
📊 Kyushu Codex: Instant Insights (2026 Data)
| Aspect | Details | Expert Reference Tip |
| Event Name | Daizenji Tamataregu Shrine Oniyo | Oniyo Fire Festival |
| Date | January 7, 2026 (Wednesday) | Fixed annual date |
| Main Event | 21:00 – 23:00 | Torch Lighting |
| Venue | Daizenji Tamataregu Shrine | Kurume City, Fukuoka |
| Admission | Free | Paid seats: ¥2,000 |
| Access | Daizenji Station (Nishitetsu) | 5 min walk |
| Highlight | 1.2 Ton Torches | Watch for falling sparks |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is it safe for spectators?
A: Generally, yes, but it is a fire festival. Sparks will fly into the crowd. Wear non-flammable clothing (avoid nylon/synthetics) and be prepared for smoke. Standing further back offers a safer but still impressive view.
Q: Can tourists participate?
A: Direct participation in carrying the torches is reserved for parishioners and local groups. However, the event is open to all spectators, and the “luck” of the sparks is shared by everyone present.
Q: Is there parking?
A: There is limited parking (approx. 300 spaces) in the surrounding area, but it fills up extremely fast. Using the Nishitetsu train line to Daizenji Station is strongly recommended to avoid traffic congestion.
Q: What happens if it rains?
A: The festival proceeds rain or shine. In fact, rain can make the steam from the torches and the participants even more dramatic. However, bring rain gear that you don’t mind getting smoky.
🌟 Synthesis
The Oniyo at Daizenji Tamataregu is a testament to the warmth of the human spirit in the depth of winter. It is a place where the community gathers not just to watch a fire, but to carry it together into the new year.
Next Step: Would you like me to find the train timetable from Nishitetsu Fukuoka (Tenjin) Station to Daizenji Station for the night of January 7th?