The traditional "Torch Ceremony" of the "Nehan-e" ceremony, which commemorates the virtues of Shaka, was held on the night of March 15, 2025, at Saga Shakado (Seiryouji Temple) in Ukyo Ward, Kyoto City. A large number of worshippers watched as the majestic flames of a large torch, about six meters high, scorched the night sky with a magnificent glow.
It has been passed down by residents of the Saga, Arashiyama, and Hirosawa areas as one of Kyoto's three major fire festivals, along with the Gozan no Okuribi and Kurama Fire Festival.
The large torch, made from pine and wisteria vines, is likened to "early rice," "middle rice," and "late rice," and the strength of the flames is said to predict the year's harvest.
At 8:30 p.m., as the rain continued to fall, the fire from the goma altar was transferred to straw attached to the end of a bamboo pole and lit in three large torches. As the pillars of fire rose and sparks flew high into the air, cheers erupted from the worshippers watching from under umbrellas.
Worshippers clasped their hands in prayer in front of the Nirvana painting displayed in the main hall, which was free to enter. At the Kyogen Hall, the Saga Dainenbutsu Kyogen Preservation Society gave three special performances, including "Shaka Nyorai," to coincide with the Nirvana Festival.
