The monks at the temple (part of the Todaiji temple area) burn massive torches made up of dried pine branches. The "promo" pics we saw elsewhere made it look like they light up the balcony of the temple but really it was just an elaborate camera trick. Jerks.
If you look to the left of the picture above, it takes about four guys to haul those burning torches up the stairs. Guess you wouldn't really wanna burn the place down eh? Did I mention the temple is pretty much 100% wood? It was also dry out. Thankfully, they have lots of experience as this tradition has been going strong since 752 without pause.
The monkly men would start on the left and run to the right of the balcony leaving a cool flame trail effect. Even better was the throngs Japanese people 'oohing' and 'aahing' every time a torch was run across. Even better was the 50-ish old lady screaming "Sugoi! Sugoi!" (sugoi means "amazing) for 20 minutes straight. It's awesome when grown adults sound like 13 year olds. It's like watching shitty fireworks! I kid, I kid.
Here's a zoomed out shot. The place was rammed with people and the area in front of the temple was a little hilly so it was difficult to get a good shot. There was also a bunch of monster pine trees in the way.
The sparks flying off the torch are supposed to grant you good luck if they touch you. Getting burned is awesome!
Summer is almost upon us and from what I hear it's festival season! Hopefully I'll be able to bring more Japanese goodness you way soon. :)
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