The Koyasan Candle Festival (Rosoku Matsuri), held on the evening of August 13th at the start of Obon, is one of Japan’s most moving summer sights. Along the entire two-kilometre approach to Okunoin, from Ichinohashi bridge to Kobo Daishi’s mausoleum, some 100,000 candles are set out and lit by visitors and pilgrims, so that the path through the ancient cedars becomes a shimmering river of small flames winding between 200,000 tombs. Lit to welcome and console the returning spirits of the dead, it turns an already extraordinary place into something unforgettable.
🗓️ At a Glance
| Location | Okunoin, Koyasan, Wakayama |
| Hours | Evening of August 13th (from ~19:00) |
| Admission | Free |
| Time needed | An evening |
| Best time | August 13th |
What to See
- Some 100,000 candles lining the 2 km Okunoin path.
- Ancient cedars and 200,000 tombs in flickering light.
- Lighting a candle yourself for the Obon spirits.
- One of Japan’s most moving summer night scenes.
Combine Your Visit
- Combine with a temple lodging stay that night.
- Pair with a daytime Okunoin walk .
- Read our Wakayama overview .
Getting There
- By train + cable car: Nankai Line and cable car up to Koyasan; then bus or walk to Ichinohashi.
- Accommodation: book a temple lodging months ahead for this date.
Tips
Book accommodation months in advance if you want to attend — August 13th fills Koyasan’s temple lodgings, and the mountain is difficult to leave late at night. Walk the path from Ichinohashi for the full effect, light a candle yourself as an offering, and bring a small torch for the darker stretches; keep in mind this is a solemn religious occasion rather than a fireworks-style festival.
