On January 26, 2025, a goma fire ceremony was held at Jokoji Temple in Yasui, Kyotanba-cho, Kyoto Prefecture, to pray for the safety of one's family and good health. Amid a light snowfall, many worshippers came from the surrounding area and from all over the Keihanshin area to burn goma sticks bearing their wishes.
Jokoji Temple, which belongs to the Koyasan Shingon sect, was established in 924. Goma fire is a prayer event in which goma sticks, which represent worldly desires, are burned in a flame that symbolizes Acala, to purify people's wishes. Jokoji Temple has been holding this event every year since 2010.
In the main hall, mountain ascetics playing conch shells, drums, and shakujo (scepters) while monks chanted sutras around the goma altar. Worshippers then took turns to burn goma sticks in the flames and prayed fervently.
Udon noodles, zenzai and other snacks were served, and visitors were able to socialise while keeping warm.
