National Treasure Usuki Stone Buddha Fire Festival
A Traditional Festival where Stone Buddhas Carved into Rock Faces Glow in the Light of Torches
The Usuki Stone Buddha Fire Festival, held in Usuki City, is centered around the Usuki Stone Buddhas – an extraordinary collection of Buddha statues carved directly into natural rock faces. These iconic stone Buddhas, created in the late 12th century, are celebrated for their intricate craftsmanship, exquisite form, and impressive scale. A total of 59 of these statues have been designated as National Treasures of Japan.
This festival combines ancient traditions of pest control for crops, prayers for a bountiful harvest, and a ceremony honoring the stone Buddhas. At 7 p.m., approximately 1,000 torches are simultaneously lit, illuminating the entire area around the statues. The flickering torchlight creates an ethereal atmosphere that leaves visitors deeply moved by the mesmerizing sight.
The event also features free distribution of the region’s specialty kabosu citrus fruits and tastings of kabosu-infused shochu liquor, which are popular among attendees. Traditional Japanese taiko drum performances further enhance the festive ambiance, making the occasion unforgettable for all who visit.
* Please note that the text shown on this page includes machine translations.
Category
Basic Information
- Event period
- August 30 (Saturday), 2025 (Tentative])
- Event venue
- Around the Usuki Stone Buddhas
- Event time
- 17:00-21:00
Torch lighting starts at 19:00 - Address (Japanese)
- 875-0064 大分県臼杵市大字深田804-1
- Address
- 804-1 Oaza Fukata, Usuki City, Oita, 875-0064
- Telephone Number
- 0972-64-7130（Stone Buddha Fire Festival Executive Committee）
- Prices
- Admission to the Stone Buddhas is free after 17:00 (regular fee: 550 yen)
- Car Park
- [Temporary Parking Lots]
-Former Usuki Commercial High School Ground: Approximately 300 parking spots (Paid shuttle bus available to Usuki Stone Buddhas)
-Usuki Minami Elementary School Ground Parking: Approximately 100 parking spots (No shuttle bus; unavailable in case of rain)
*The parking at the Stone Buddha site will be unavailable
*Accessible parking is available at the Kyudo Parking Lot (Please present your disability certificate) - Access
- [By train]
Approximately 20 minutes by car or bus from JR Usuki Station
*Vehicle traffic is restricted between 18:00 and 22:00. Please use the temporary parking lot and available shuttle buses. - Website
- Remarks
- Held even in light rain; canceled in the event of severe weather
＊Information on facilities is subject to change. Please check each official website for the latest information.
