Nigatsudo in Todai-ji Temple, Nara

During Otaimatsu, priests run to and fro along the corridors of Nigatsu-do, one of the important structures of Todai-ji temple, waving huge pine torches. It is believed that if you are showered with these fire sparks, you will be protected from evil. This centuries-old ritual has been carried out every year since 752. Each night around 10 torches are lit up and the largest torch appears on the 12th.