Shuni-e Ceremony Dates and 2026 Schedule

The Omizutori festival occurs every year from March 1 to March 14. These dates never change on the modern calendar. In 2026, the festival begins on a Sunday. It concludes two weeks later on a Saturday night. This consistency makes it easy to plan your travel.

The event is officially known as Shuni-e. It is a series of Buddhist repentance rites. Monks pray for the health and prosperity of the nation. They perform these rituals at the Nigatsudo Hall. This building is a famous part of the Todai-ji Temple complex.

The fire ceremony is the most famous part of Shuni-e. Each night, monks carry massive flaming torches to the balcony. They run across the wooden structure to scatter sparks. Many visitors believe these sparks bring good luck. You can learn what is the meaning of Omizutori ceremony to understand the spiritual depth.

The festival has never been canceled in its long history. It has survived wars, fires, and modern changes. This resilience makes it a cornerstone of Japanese culture. Visitors in 2026 will witness a truly timeless tradition. Ensure you mark your calendar for the first two weeks of March.

Daily Torch Lighting Times at Nigatsudo Hall

Most nights of the festival follow a set schedule. The fire ceremony usually begins promptly at 7:00 PM. This applies from March 1 through March 11. It also applies on March 13. The display lasts for about twenty minutes each evening.

During these standard nights, ten torches are lit. One torch is carried up to the balcony every few minutes. The monks swing the torches over the waiting crowds below. The visual effect is both beautiful and slightly terrifying. It is a highlight of the Nara winter events 2026 season.

The torches used are about six meters long. They are made from pine roots and bamboo. The fire creates a massive glow against the dark sky. You can see the light from across Nara Park. The sound of the crackling fire is very loud.

Entry to the temple grounds is free for everyone. You do not need a ticket for the general viewing area. However, the space fills up very quickly. You should arrive well before the 7:00 PM start time. This ensures you have a clear view of the balcony.

Special Timing for March 12 and March 14

Two nights during the festival have different schedules. March 12 is the most popular night for tourists. On this date, the ceremony starts at 7:30 PM. The torches are significantly larger than on other nights. They are called Kago-taimatsu and weigh much more.

The March 12 ceremony lasts for nearly forty-five minutes. All eleven torches are brought out in a grand procession. This night also includes the actual water-drawing ritual. This ritual happens in the early hours of March 13. It is the namesake of the Omizutori festival.

March 14 is the final night of the event. The schedule shifts earlier to 6:30 PM. This ceremony is very short but incredibly intense. All ten torches are brought out at the same time. They are moved across the balcony in rapid succession.

The final night usually ends within ten minutes. It is a fast-paced and chaotic finale. Crowds are often the largest on this closing night. Many locals come to see the final sparks of the year. Plan your exit strategy carefully as the temple clears out.

Best Times to Arrive for Viewing the Fire

Timing your arrival is critical for a good experience. On standard weekdays, arriving by 5:30 PM is usually sufficient. This gives you a decent spot in the lower courtyard. On weekends, you should aim to arrive by 4:30 PM. The crowds grow significantly on Friday and Saturday nights.

March 12 requires a much earlier commitment. People start lining up as early as 10:00 AM. By 3:00 PM, the main viewing area is often full. The temple staff may restrict access once capacity is reached. Read our guide on the best time to arrive for Nara Omizutori for more tips.

The Nara City Tourism Association provides crowd updates. They often post signs near the temple entrance. If the main area is full, you might be sent to a secondary area. These spots offer a further view but are less crowded. You can still see the glow of the fires from there.

The weather in Nara is very cold in early March. You will be standing outside for several hours. Wear thermal layers and bring hand warmers. Many visitors bring portable stools for the long wait. Just remember to stand up when the ceremony begins.

Practical Details for Your 2026 Visit

Visiting Todai-ji for Omizutori is very affordable. There is no cost to enter the park or the courtyard. You only pay if you visit the Great Buddha Hall. That hall usually closes before the fire ceremony starts. Budget your money for local snacks and hot drinks instead.

• Event Dates: March 1 to March 14, 2026
• Standard Time: 7:00 PM (March 1-11, 13)
• Peak Night Time: 7:30 PM (March 12)
• Final Night Time: 6:30 PM (March 14)

The Nigatsudo Hall is a 20-minute walk from Kintetsu Nara Station. It takes about 35 minutes from the JR Nara Station. Follow the crowds toward the hillside of Nara Park. The path is well-lit during the festival nights. Many food stalls line the route to the temple.

Safety is a priority during the fire festival. Do not bring large umbrellas into the viewing area. They block the view and can catch sparks. Tripods are often restricted in the most crowded sections. Follow the instructions of the temple guards at all times.