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February 8, 2026 at 9:00 am
Event date:
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February 8, 2026 at 5:00 pm
Event end:
History
The Omuroyama Yamayaki Festival (大室山 山焼き) has a history of around 700 years in Ito City, Shizuoka Prefecture. Originally, the festival was held to maintain Mount Omuro by burning the dry, dead grass that accumulated over winter, preventing overgrowth and preserving the mountain’s distinctive bowl-like shape. This ritual also reduced the risk of natural wildfires during spring and maintained the ecological balance of the area.
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Contact Jasumo Now →Over the centuries, the practical maintenance activity evolved into a celebrated cultural festival, drawing thousands of visitors each year. The festival is deeply tied to local identity and community pride, with generations of Ito residents participating in preparations and witnessing the ceremonial fire.
In addition to its ecological and cultural significance, Omuroyama Yamayaki also serves as a seasonal marker, signaling the end of winter and the approach of spring. It has become an event that blends natural spectacle with social gathering, tourism, and photography, making it a must-see for visitors to Shizuoka.
The event has also been preserved through modern adaptations, including crowd management, safety measures, and accessibility improvements, allowing both locals and international visitors to enjoy this centuries-old tradition while maintaining its authenticity.
Overview
Omuroyama, a symbol of Ito City, offers visitors not only the dramatic Yamayaki fire ritual but also hiking opportunities around the crater and panoramic views of the surrounding Shizuoka landscape. Visitors can take a lift to the top and explore the volcanic crater before the burning begins.
The festival is carefully timed, with small-scale burns starting in the morning to ignite the larger ceremonial fire around noon. The event is highly dependent on weather conditions, and strong winds, rain, or snow may cause postponement to the following Sunday.
The Yamayaki Festival is as much a social gathering as a ritual, with visitors enjoying local food, photography opportunities, and a chance to witness a centuries-old tradition in a modern context.
Highlights
- 700-year-old tradition of controlled mountain burning.
- Dramatic sight of Mount Omuro’s slopes set ablaze.
- Opportunities for hiking and crater exploration.
- Spectacular panoramic views of Ito City and the surrounding area.
- Festival atmosphere with visitors, local vendors, and photography opportunities.
Why Jasumo Recommends?
- Witness one of Japan’s most visually striking and historic fire festivals.
- Combine cultural experience with outdoor adventure and hiking.
- Capture incredible photos of Mount Omuro ablaze against the winter sky.
- Enjoy a unique seasonal tradition in Shizuoka’s natural beauty.
- Perfect for families, travelers, and photography enthusiasts.
If you’re coming to Japan or are already here, and need help with custom tours, transportation, or booking tickets and more — just contact us through the Contact Us page on Jasumo.
Schedule
- Scheduled Date: Sunday, February 8, 2026 (tentative; weather dependent)
- Craterside Burning (Obachi-yaki): Approx. 9:00 AM
- Whole Mountain Burning: Approx. 12:00 PM (Noon)
Note: In case of strong winds, heavy rain, or snowfall, the event may be postponed, usually to the following Sunday. Decisions about postponement are made early in the morning, around 6:30 AM.
Pricing
- Entry: Free of charge.
Location
Venue: Mount Omuro, Ito City, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan
Map Points & Nearby Landmarks:
- Ito Station & Izu-Kogen Station: Take a bus bound for Shaboten Zoo and Mount Omuro.
- Last Stop: Mount Omuro is visible from the final bus stop.
- Parking: Available at the base of the mountain, but buses are recommended during festival day due to crowds.
Tips: Dress warmly, as February temperatures can be cold and windy. Arrive early to get good views and take part in the morning ritual burn.
Accommodation Options
Visitors can stay in Ito City or nearby Izu Peninsula towns, including hotels, ryokans, and guesthouses. Staying locally allows easy access to Mount Omuro and other attractions such as Shaboten Zoo and nearby hot springs.
Average costs range from ¥7,000 to ¥20,000 per night, depending on type and amenities. Early booking is recommended due to the festival’s popularity.
FAQs
When does the Omuroyama Yamayaki take place?
The festival is traditionally held on the 2nd Sunday of February but is weather-dependent and may be postponed to the following Sunday.
What is Obachi-yaki?
Obachi-yaki is the small-scale ceremonial burning of the crater’s grass before the main mountain burn around noon.
How do I get to Mount Omuro?
Take a bus from Ito Station or Izu-Kogen Station bound for Shaboten Zoo and Mount Omuro, alighting at the last stop.
Is the festival free to attend?
Yes, entry is completely free for all visitors.
Can I hike Mount Omuro on the festival day?
Yes, a lift is available to the top, and visitors can explore the crater and surrounding trails before the main burning.
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