Hadaka Matsuri

Name: Hadaka Matsuri
Start: 2025-02-14
Location: Saidaiji

A Test of Luck, Heat, and Brotherhood in Okayama

2026/02/20

Every February, the usually tranquil Saidaiji Kannon-in Temple in Okayama erupts with the heat and shouts of thousands of men for Saidaiji Eyo, better known as the “Hadaka Matsuri” or Naked Festival. On a freezing winter night, about 10,000 men clad only in white fundoshi loincloths and tabi socks gather to battle for two sacred wooden sticks called shingi, believed to bring a year of fortune to whoever claims them. For locals and visitors alike, this is an unforgettable experience of tradition, thrill, and community spirit-a festival where courage, chaos, and camaraderie collide.

The event, designated an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Asset of Japan, takes place at Saidaiji Kannon-in. The temple grounds resound with the slap of bare feet, the scent of incense and icy river water, and the thunder of taiko drums and chants echoing beneath the winter sky. If you want to witness the hottest night in Okayama’s winter, this is a must-see tradition.

Main Attractions

The Shingi Scramble: Midnight Mayhem and the Battle for Luck

The climax comes at 10pm, when the temple plunges into darkness and two shingi-about 20cm long and 4cm thick-are hurled into the crowd. Ten thousand men surge and struggle in a wild contest to seize the shingi. Whoever manages to place a shingi into the masu (a wooden box) is named “Fukuotoko” (Lucky Man) and is said to receive a year of good fortune. In addition, 100 willow branches (goko) are thrown into the crowd as lucky charms. The energy, shouting, and sheer physical clash make this one of Japan’s most intense festivals.

Purification, Taiko Drums, and Festival Energy

Before the main event, participants purify themselves with “mizugori”-a ritual plunge into icy water, chanting “Wasshoi! Wasshoi!” as they brace for the cold. During the day, there are children’s events, mochi-throwing, and local festivities. As evening falls, the all-female Eyo Taiko troupe fills the air with powerful drumming, while lanterns and food stalls light up the grounds. Anticipation and excitement build to a fever pitch as the main event approaches.

Fundoshi Attire and Temple Decorations

The festival’s iconic attire is simple: only a white fundoshi and tabi socks. The sight of 10,000 nearly naked men pressed together, steaming in the winter cold, is unforgettable. The temple is decorated with lanterns and flags, the air thick with incense and the steam from purification baths, creating an almost mystical atmosphere. The contrast between the solemn main hall and the mass of bare-skinned men is a highlight in itself.

Cultural and Historical Background

Saidaiji Eyo has a history of over 500 years. It began when monks, after completing New Year’s ascetic training, would toss paper talismans (go-o) to worshippers for good luck. As the talismans became too popular and were torn apart in the scramble, they were replaced by sturdy wooden shingi. Nudity symbolizes purification and the removal of misfortune, rooted in both Shinto and Buddhist beliefs. The event is a communal prayer for luck, health, and unity.

For locals, the festival is a symbol of courage, endurance, and community bonds. Being named Fukuotoko is a lifelong honor, and many dream of joining at least once. Foreigners are welcome to participate, making Saidaiji Eyo a uniquely international and inclusive event.

Participant Voices

I joined with my university friends. When the lights went out and the shingi flew, the energy was incredible! I forgot the cold and, in the end, everyone-even strangers-congratulated each other on a good fight.

Fun Facts

The festival is held even in subzero temperatures, with steam rising from the bodies of the participants.
The shingi are soaked in perfume, and some men follow the scent to try and find them.