14th Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest People
Rite of Fire

Norimoto-Mando is a traditional and beautiful fire festival in Aichi prefecture. It will be held in Mt.Mantou of August 15 every year. Mando is made of straw. And it weights about 10 kg. Shirtless men brandish ignited mando overhead, while shouting "Mando, Mando, Yoi-Yoi". They draw the big circle of fire in the night sky. This festival has a several meanings. For example, repose of souls, repelling pests, a rite of passage and memorial service for the war dead of the Battle Nagashino.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 08.2014
Date Uploaded: 11.2016
Photo Location: Shinshiro, Japan
Copyright: © Hidetoshi Ogata