The Saitō Daigomaku (Great Fire Ritual) is the annual opening of the doors to the inner sanctum at Chinkokuji Temple. Among these rituals, the most famous is the “Hiwatari Saitō Daigomaku” (Fire-Walking Saitō Daigomaku) held on April 28th.
At Chinkokuji Temple, which enshrines Fudō Myō-ō (Acala), a Gyōja (ascetic practitioner) called Migawari Namikiri (Substitute Wave Cutter) performs the fire-walking arhat practice outdoors. The Gyōja walks through the flames of approximately 1500 torches, and worshippers touch the prayer fire and are showered with smoke and ash.
Many people visit this event to pray for protection from bad luck, recovery from illness, and family safety. By all means, please visit Chinkokuji Temple in the spring and observe the powerful fire-walking arhat practice.
Access Information
Address: 966 Yoshida, Munakata City, Fukuoka Prefecture 811-3506, Phone Number: 0940-62-0111 (Chinkokuji Temple)
Date: April 28 every year
Parking: Available
Access: Approximately 10 minutes on foot from the “Munakata Taisha Mae” bus stop.
Website: Related Site is here