Witness the spectacle of Notojima (Noto Island) Kōda’s legendary fire festival.
What happens?
The Notojima Kōda Fire Festival is one of Japan’s largest and most captivating fire festivals. It is held on Noto Island, located in Ishikawa Prefecture.
According to legend, the male deity Iyahiko visits the island annually to see his lover, the female deity Iyahime, and this event marks their mythical reunion.
During the festival, a massive 30-meter-tall conic pillar torch is set ablaze, creating a stunning display as flames light up the night sky. Traditional kiriko lanterns — large illuminated lantern floats unique to this part of Japan — accompany the rhythmic beats of gongs, drums, and flutes, adding to the festival’s dynamic atmosphere.
A unique highlight is the ritual where participants throw torches at the pillar, culminating in a fiery spectacle that determines the year’s fortunes. If the pillar falls towards the mountains, it signifies a good harvest, while a fall towards the sea predicts a bountiful fish catch.
What are Noto Kiriko festivals?
Noto Kiriko refers to the spectacular summer festivals held across Ishikawa’s Noto Peninsula, known for their vibrant parades featuring massive, illuminated lantern floats. These festivals, running from July through September, are deeply rooted in local traditions dating back to the late 17th century.
The Kiriko festivals are a time for communities to come together and pray for prosperity, good harvests, and protection against misfortunes. Each town on the Noto Peninsula has its unique customs and traditions, but all share the common elements of parading elaborately decorated kiriko lanterns, lively music, and dynamic rituals.
The kiriko lanterns themselves are works of art, often adorned with gold leaf, intricate carvings, and painted designs. These lanterns can reach heights of up to 15 meters and are carried through the streets by teams of young adults, accompanied by traditional music played on drums and flutes.
One of the most dramatic aspects of these festivals is the fiery climax, where portable shrines (mikoshi) are lit on fire or thrown into the sea. This act symbolizes the burning away of troubles and misfortunes, bringing a sense of renewal and hope to the community.
How to get there
From Tokyo, take the JR Hokuriku Shinkansen to Kanazawa Station, and then the JR Limited Express Train to Wakura Onsen Station. Then, take the Notojima Kotsu Bus and get off at Mukoudamiya-mae.
Organizers may cancel events, alter schedules, or change admission requirements without notice. Always check official sites before heading to an event.
