Nasu is known as the largest volcanic belt in Japan and has erupted several times in the past, resulting in many victims. Villagers in the vicinity purified themselves to appease the wrath of the mountain, and began to pay homage to the Nasu Onsen (Yuzen) Shrine, where they lit the fire of Mutenjigoku and worshiped it as "Gojinka (fire of the gods)". Since then, the festival has become an event to pray for a good harvest and good health.
In the "Gojinkasai" ceremony, participants dressed in white take torches in a procession from Nasu Onsen Shrine to Sekeshoseki, where they set fire to a large torch (gojinka), creating a fantastic atmosphere. While the sacred fire burns, the local entertainment of white-masked, golden-haired, nine-tailed fox drums will be performed at "Keshouseki," the site of the legend of the nine-tailed fox. The public is welcome to participate in the "torchlight procession" through the darkness.
In addition to the public participation in the torchlight procession, the market of nine tails, Shinto rituals, and performances of nine-tailed fox drums, events such as the Hyakki Yagyo by cosplayers participants will also be held.