Everywhere: Articles: Firewalkers

Buddhist Monks honor the Island Forests of Miyajima, Japan by walking over hot coals.

Pyre by Matthew Audet

Goma Fire Ritual at Daisho-in Temple in Miyajima, Japan

High up on Mt. Misen on the sacred island of Miyajima lies the Daisho-in Temple, one of the most prestigious Buddhist temples in all of Japan. If you visit the main temple you will often see a small ritual fire being tended by a priest. This fire, fed by burning votive sticks marked with the prayers of worshippers, is reported to have been lit 1200 years ago by Kobo Daishi, founder of the Shingon sect of Buddhism.

Twice a year, this eternal fire sparks a ritual celebrating the Three Awesome Forest Deities believed to inhabit Mt. Misen. This Hiwatari Shinji, or firewalking ceremony is presided over by temple priests and attended by over a hundred locals and visitors.