Torigoe Shrine Dondo-Yaki

The Torigoe Shrine Dondo-yaki is a historic purification ritual held annually on January 8th to mark the formal conclusion of the New Year season. Rooted in the Heian period, the ceremony involves the communal burning of sacred New Year decorations, amulets, and kakizome (the first calligraphy of the year). This bonfire is believed to symbolically send the toshigami (New Year deity) back to the heavens, while the smoke purifies the participants. A significant local tradition involves roasting rice cakes or dango over the sacred flames, a practice said to provide protection from illness during the coming year.

For visitors, it is advisable to arrive shortly before the mid-morning start to witness the lighting of the pyre. The shrine is located within a traditional residential district and is easily accessible via several local rail lines; however, the surrounding streets become exceptionally congested during the peak of the burning. Participants intending to roast food should bring their own long bamboo or willow branches, as these are not typically provided on-site.