Kito no Daimonji Wildfire Festival
Kito no Daimonji Wildfire Festival: A Fiery Start to the New Year
Picture this: the crisp, snowy slopes of Hokkaido, a midnight chill in the air, and the sight of a massive, blazing kanji character igniting the night. Welcome to the Kito no Daimonji Wildfire Festival, a New Year’s celebration like no other, held in Kamifurano Town. This annual event combines fiery spectacle and ancient symbolism as it lights up Hinode Park, marking the passage from the old year to the new in a blaze of glory.
Festival Highlights
Lighting the “Dai” Character
At the stroke of midnight on New Year’s Eve, something quite extraordinary unfolds. Picture 300 steel rods meticulously arranged in the shape of the kanji “大” (dai), a character that translates to “big” or “great.” And big it certainly is—spanning 70 meters in length and 50 meters wide, this enormous symbol is the festival’s fiery centerpiece. The sacred flame, carried from Kami Furano Shrine by runners, is carefully applied to the rods, and as they catch fire one by one, the enormous “大” comes alive, casting an ethereal glow against the snowy hillside. The result? An awe-inspiring scene that feels equal parts mystical and primal—one you won’t soon forget.
Fireworks and Balloon Release
As if a gigantic fiery kanji wasn’t enough, the night gets even more dazzling. There’s a mass balloon release where festival-goers—bundled in layers of warmth—send their New Year wishes skyward. Not long after, the inky night is splattered with the brilliant colors of some 1,200 fireworks. The explosion of light and color, set against the tranquil backdrop of a snow-blanketed Hokkaido, is a stunning contrast—an energetic welcome to the year ahead, all while your face, nose, and every other exposed part of you slowly turns to ice.
Warm Drinks and Winter Atmosphere
Speaking of ice, did I mention that Hokkaido is cold? Think “nose hairs freezing” cold. Fortunately, there’s free cocoa on hand to warm up the crowd. There’s something charming about huddling together in the freezing night, cocoa in hand, as you await the next firework or balloon-filled moment. It’s not just a festival—it’s a gathering of locals, visitors, and adventurous souls who have braved the elements for this communal celebration. The winter atmosphere, the shared warmth, and the sheer spectacle of it all add a festive glow to the freezing night.
Event Information
- Dates: December 31 – January 1
- Location: Hinode Park, Kamifurano Town, Hokkaido
Event Schedule
- December 31, 23:30: Opening ceremony
- January 1, 00:00: Lighting of the “Dai” symbol and fireworks display
- Admission: Free
- Parking: Available at Hinode Park and nearby areas
Access
Getting to the festival is a breeze—if you don’t mind the cold nipping at your nose:
- By foot: A brisk 15-minute walk from JR Kamifurano Station
- By car: A mere 3-minute drive from the station (but who’s counting minutes when it’s -10°C outside?).
Practical Information
- Hours: Open from 23:30 on December 31 until 00:40 on January 1
- Language: Don’t expect much in the way of English menus or signage—this is a local affair, after all.
- Credit Cards: These won’t help you much either. Better bring cash and plenty of it!
An Unforgettable Experience
The Kito no Daimonji Wildfire Festival is more than just a New Year’s party—it’s a combination of tradition, camaraderie, and pure spectacle. There’s something profoundly moving about watching the gigantic “Dai” character burn brightly into the new year, surrounded by fellow revelers. Add the warmth of shared cocoa and the vibrant explosion of fireworks, and you’ve got a recipe for an experience that stays with you long after you’ve thawed out.
Pro tip: Layer up, because Hokkaido doesn’t mess around when it comes to winter! For more detailed schedules and the latest updates, visit the Kamifurano Tokachidake Tourist Association’s website, and make sure to start your year with a bit of fiery fun.