Arab News Japan

TOKYO: A Japanese Shinto firewalking ritual was held on Mount Takao near Tokyo on March 13, where monks prayed for world peace and the end of the pandemic.

After shooting six arrows at the four corners of a large brazier, the monks lit it, igniting flames reaching more than three meters high.

This ancient ritual of firewalking is usually done in Japan and other countries by stepping uninjured over a bed of red-hot stones or burning wood, and is a sign of courage and strength.

After putting out the blaze and creating two paths while chanting Buddhist verses, the monks led the walk over the smoldering ash while hundreds of onlookers were cheering. Some of the spectators practiced firewalking while praying to heal their loved ones.

Some young participants told Arab News Japan that this was the first time they had practiced this walk. A woman said she prayed to deliver her baby and purify herself from bad energies.

Mount Takao is popular among Buddhists praying for deliverance from plagues.