Experience Kyoto’s iconic summer tradition, the Gozan no Okuribi.
This enchanting and ephemeral event marks the end of Obon on August 16th at 8:00 PM, when five surrounding mountains of Kyoto illuminate with fiery characters and shapes.
From select rooms at Kyoto Pleasant Hotel, guests can enjoy a direct view of the Gozan no Okuribi (please note that not all rooms offer this view).
For instance, some rooms facing east provide a view of the “Daimonji” character on Higashiyama’s Nyoigatake (Daimonji Mountain).
The event begins promptly at 8:00 PM, with the first fires lit on Daimonji. The softly glowing character “大” on the eastern mountains creates a truly magical and unforgettable sight.
On the other hand, some rooms on the west side offer a view of the “Sadaimonji” character on Kinugasa Ohkitayama. From our hotel, this character appears closer, providing a more vivid experience.
The fires on Sadaimonji are lit at 8:15 PM.
In certain years, it’s possible to capture both the Okuribi flames and the moon in the same photograph—a rare and lucky opportunity indeed!
This event is not particularly extravagant and lasts only about 20 to 30 minutes. However, it is enveloped in a tranquil atmosphere, evoking a sense of fleeting beauty that perfectly captures the essence of summer’s end.
When the season comes, we will guide you to rooms with a view of the Gozan no Okuribi.
Enjoy this enchanting event from the comfort of your room—perhaps with a drink in hand as you admire the glowing symbols of the mountains.