Hakone Daimonji-Yaki (Shape of Letter Dai)

Every August 16th, the slopes of Mount Myojojo light up with a massive bonfire shaped like the kanji character 'Dai' (meaning great), a spectacular summer tradition designed to guide ancestral spirits back to the afterlife. Best viewed from the Gora area, the fiery display is accompanied by a vibrant festival featuring live music and a brilliant fireworks show over the valley. Even during the off-season, hiking the trail to the summit offers panoramic views of Hakone and the iconic scar where the bonfire is built.

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