Priests swing torches
in order to pray for the peace and security of a nation. It has been observed without interruption since 752. That is, this is the 1264th year of the historic festival.
It is a severe training held annually from March 1 through 14. Priests pray to Kannon Bosatsu with 11 faces enshrined at this hall for world peace and forgivenss for people's sins.
Syuni-e (Main Event)
is that 10 out of 11 priests called "Rengyoshu" hold up kago-torches with a length of 6 meters and a weight of 80 kg go up stone stairs and run on the corridor with a torch. It is held for about 20 minutes from 7 PM.
Please check The Ancient Capital of Nara : Todaiji Temple Kasuga Shrine and Kofukuji Temple.