The Nozawa Onsen Dosojin Fire Festival, held every 15 January, is considered one of Japan’s three great fire festivals, a dramatic and intense nighttime spectacle centred on a huge wooden shrine (shaden) built by the villagers. In the festival’s climax, men aged 25 and 42 (considered unlucky ages) defend the structure from villagers attacking with flaming torches in a fierce battle of fire, before the shrine is finally set alight, all as a prayer for a good harvest, family wellbeing and the blessing of children, set against the deep snow of the mountain village.
🗓️ At a Glance
| Location | Nozawa Onsen, Nagano |
| Hours | Evening, 15 January annually |
| Admission | Free to view |
| Time needed | Several hours in the evening |
| Best time | 15 January; dress for deep snow and cold |
What to See
- A huge wooden shaden shrine built by the villagers.
- Villagers attacking with flaming torches as defenders hold them back.
- The dramatic climax as the shrine is finally set alight.
- One of Japan’s three great fire festivals, in a deep-snow setting.
Combine Your Visit
- Combine with Nozawa Onsen village and its public baths.
- Pair with Shiga Kogen Skiing or nearby ski areas in winter.
- Read our Nagano overview .
Getting There
- By train + bus: JR to Iiyama Station, then a bus to Nozawa Onsen, roughly 25 minutes.
- By car: expect heavy congestion and snow; winter driving preparation essential.
Tips
The festival is held on a fixed date, 15 January, in the depths of winter, so dress for deep snow and severe cold and wear proper waterproof, grippy footwear. Crowds gather close to genuine fire, so keep a safe distance from the flames and follow the directions of festival staff, and book accommodation well in advance as the village fills up for this major event.
