Arrived in Fujiyoshida about 4 which was later than expected, partly due to me getting off the train at the wrong stop and having to wait for the next train. That's what having no sleep does to you! We get off the train and head down to the hostel, which is just 5mins away. After checking in I ask about the Fire Festival that I'm here to see. It starts at about 6.30 so I grab some sleep before we head over.
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So as we walk up the street we can see torches burning up the street. The roads have been closed. This festival marks the end of the climbing season and is one of Japan's most unique festivals. As we move further up the street there are more and more fire stacks, some made out of just pallets! There is a real buzz about the place with plenty of people around. There is no safety at these bonfires, just a towering inferno, randomly collapsing in to the street, kids running round everywhere. Wouldn't get anything like this back home. The further up the street we get the more people there are, little stalls start to appear selling food, beer and trinkets. We grab some food and sit under a tree just watching it all unfolding. Some guy just picks up a bongo and him and his mate just start beating out a rhythm. I think there was supposed to be some type of parade although it was no where to be seen. We continued around the stalls until we got tired and headed back to bed. I grabbed a beer at the 7/11 and had it just before bed. Exhaustion I believe has now set in. I plan to do nothing tomorrow.