Nara Omizutori Fire Ceremony Safety for Tourists in 2026

You can find the latest updates on Nara travel info.

For official information, visit Nara travel info.

Do not wear expensive or delicate fabrics like silk or thin nylon. Embers can easily burn small holes in your favorite jackets or scarves. Choose older clothing made from natural fibers like heavy cotton or wool. These materials are less likely to melt if a spark lands on them.

Keep a safe distance from the balcony if you feel nervous about the fire. The temple staff uses barriers to keep the main crowd at a safe distance. Never try to cross these barriers to get a closer photo. Respecting the boundaries ensures everyone remains safe during the intense fire display.

Navigating the Crowds in Nara Park Safely

Thousands of people gather every night from March 1 to March 14. The narrow paths leading to Nigatsudo Hall can become very congested. Security guards direct the flow of traffic to prevent dangerous situations. Always follow the instructions given by the staff in neon vests.

The ceremony takes place at Nigatsudo Hall within the Todai-ji Temple complex. Entry to the viewing area is free for all visitors. Most nights the fire display begins at 7:00 PM and lasts about 20 minutes. On March 14, the final night, the start time moves to 6:30 PM.

Arriving early is the best way to find a secure spot. The most popular viewing areas often fill up several hours before the torches start. Plan your arrival based on the best time to arrive for Nara Omizutori. This helps you avoid the most chaotic movement of the crowd.

Once the ceremony begins, moving around the viewing area is very difficult. Identify the nearest exits as soon as you find your standing spot. If you feel overwhelmed by the density of the crowd, move toward the back. Staying near the edges makes it easier to leave if you feel uncomfortable.

Preparing for Cold Weather and Long Waits

March nights in Nara are often very cold and windy. You will likely stand outside for several hours before the ceremony starts. Wear multiple layers of thermal clothing to keep your body heat trapped. Hand warmers are cheap and very effective for long waits.

Expect temperatures to drop near 0°C (32°F) once the sun goes down in Nara. The wind often picks up as you stand near the hillside of Nigatsudo. Prepare for a wait of two to three hours to get a good spot. Staying warm is your best defense against the biting March chill.

Wear sturdy and comfortable shoes for standing on stone or gravel paths. You may need to walk long distances through Nara Park in the dark. Avoid wearing high heels or sandals that offer little protection for your feet. Proper footwear prevents slips and keeps your toes warm in the chilly air.

Check the weather forecast on the Nara City Tourism Association website before heading out. Rain can make the stone steps slippery and the air feel much colder. If it rains, the ceremony still continues but safety risks increase. Be extra careful on the stairs when they are wet.

Prohibited Items and Visitor Conduct Rules

Safety rules strictly prohibit the use of umbrellas in the viewing areas. Umbrellas block the view of others and can be dangerous in tight crowds. Use a waterproof jacket or a plastic poncho if rain is expected. This keeps you dry without bothering the people standing around you.

Tripods and selfie sticks are also banned in the main viewing sections. These items create tripping hazards and can hit other visitors in the dark. Hold your camera or phone firmly with both hands to take photos. Consider watching Todai-ji Nigatsudo torches from afar if you need to use a tripod.

Smoking is strictly forbidden throughout the sacred temple grounds. The wooden structures of Todai-ji Temple are very old and highly flammable. Use designated smoking areas located outside the park boundaries. Keeping the temple safe from fire is a responsibility for every tourist.