On August 23, 2025, the traditional "Agematsu" festival, illuminating the late summer night sky, took place in the Tsurugaoka area of Miyama Town, Nantan City, Kyoto Prefecture. Residents threw blazing torches into the air, aiming for the bamboo baskets called "moji" attached to the tops of torogi (traditional wooden poles) about 20 meters tall, creating trails of flame across the pitch-black valley.
Originating from Atago faith, the event prays for bountiful harvests and good health. It is held in four villages in Miyama Town, Nantan City, and was held in Morigo and Tono villages on August 23rd.
In Morigo, the festival began at 8 pm, with torches set up on the banks of the Tanano River. Around 15 men spun torches attached to ropes, gaining momentum as they threw them. They shouted, "This year it's mine!" as they threw, aiming to hit their target.
As the residents played flutes and drums and the sounds of insects echoed, many family members surrounded the building, cheering, "Do your best, Dad!" One hour and 20 minutes later, the torch was placed inside the moji, and the cedar leaves stuffed inside were engulfed in a spectacular flame, which drew thunderous applause.
The finale was when the burning moji was pulled down with a rope. Sparks flew wildly and cheers erupted.
