Today’s Japan photo promises to be really exciting as we explore the very unique annual burning of Mount Wakakusa [若草山の山焼き].

This photo was taken off Mainichi Japan. You can see the intense fire burning on the moutain and the beautiful fireworks in the air. Basically its a pyromaniac dream come true ^^

Just a little more information on this special annual burning of Mount Wakakusa [若草山の山焼き]:

The burning of Mt. Wakakusa, an 1122-foot tall mountain alongside Nara city, is done in a ritual known as “‘yamayaki” [山焼き]. The ritual is a sort of memorial service and act of appeasement for those who have already passed way, as well as a prayer for world peace. The burning is also said to help prevent wildfires and promote revitalization of the mountain’s vegetation – wakakusa literally translates as ‘young grass.’

The ritual is carried out in conjunction with several of the major local temples and shrines. Approximately 80 acres of the mountain were lit on fire in a controlled burn presided over by a fire brigade of approximately 300.

And here’s a video of the hot event by Asahi News: