Each spring cities, towns and villages in the area host the Aso No Hi Matsuri or the Fire Festival of Aso.  It’s a spectacular event highlighted by the burning of the kanji character for fire onto the hillside at Hana Aso Bi (Dai Himonjiyaki) and a torchlight ritual (Hifuri Shinji) at Aso-jinja Shrine.  The festival began in 1984 when area farmers decided to coordinate the burning off of their fields  in order to promote tourism in the area.

2009 Aso No Hi Matsuri Schedule of Events

On Saturday, March 14, 2009 take in the Dai Himonjiyaki and witness as the hillsize is ablaze with the 350 meter tall kanji symbolizing fire.  Events start at 3PM and are followed by a fireworks show.  From the JR Aso Station take a bus bound for Uchinomaki Onse and disembark at the Hana Aso Bi bus stop.

On Monday,  March 16, 2009 head for Aso-jinja Shrine where you will be treated to a Wadaiko (traditional Japanese drumming) performance starting at 6PM followed by the Hifuri Shinji (Shinto torchlight ritual).  Events wrap up around 8PM.  From the JR Miyaji Station walk fro 20 minutes or take a five minute taxi ride.

For more information about how to get to Kumamot an Mt. Aso as well as accommodations on the area download the Kumamoto and Mt.Aso Sightseeing Guide (PDF) from the Japan Nation Tourism Association.

Image Credit: Welcome to Kyushu, Event Information & Flickr, Aso fire festival