Oni Fest

Oni Fest (鬼フェス) on Yoshinoyama is a unique twist on Japan’s Setsubun tradition. While most places shout “oni wa soto” (demons out), Yoshinoyama welcomes good demons with open arms. This custom comes from an old legend where En no Gyoja, the founder of Shugendo, transformed two evil demons, Zenki and Goki, into helpers. Every year on February 2, the mountain comes alive with demon dances, taiko performances, bean-throwing ceremonies, and fire rituals at Kinpusen-ji Temple. Visitors can shake hands with demons and feel the spiritual energy of this sacred mountain.

During the festival, local inns serve tasty specialties like duck udon, persimmon-leaf sushi, and handmade soba. From 11am to 2pm, local innkeepers offer warm dishes to showcase Yoshinoyama’s famous hospitality. There’s also an “Oni Bar” with discounted food and drinks, plus live music in temples before and after Setsubun. Even in snowy February, Yoshinoyama’s cozy streets, hot baths, and scenic hikes make this a memorable seasonal escape.