Japanese performer spins 2.5-meter flaming torch in Narasawa Daitengu ritual

A participant in the Japanese fire ritual 'Narasawa Daitengu' spun a 2.5-meter flaming torch above his head. Dressed in white robes, the dancer performed a ritual dance under a shower of sparks. The ceremony is held in Nagano Prefecture to cleanse evil spirits and attract good fortune. According to local belief, the more sparks scatter around, the greater the happiness the community will receive.