The Iizuna Fire Festival (飯綱火まつり) is dedicated to the Shugendo practice of going up the mountain for training. Shugendo was a religion that was widely practiced from the 7th century up to the early 17th century and was a combination of Japan’s native religion of Shinto, Buddhism and Taoism.

Held on top of the Iizuna-kogen Highlands at Daiza Hoshi-ike pond, this festival boasts various events including a giant bonfire on the pond, traditional music/dancing performance, singing children, and a laser and fireworks show set to music as ending event. There are approximately 2000 fireworks in various styles.

This event is held in the evening from 17:30 to 21:00, so we would recommend people to book a hotel in Nagano City in advance!