-
Jan 1, 1520
Origins
The Naked Man Festival, or known in Japan as Hadaka Matsuri, evolved from a ritual that originated over 500 years ago when participants, these being only men, attempted to catch bull testicles. -
Beliefs
The belief of this ritual was that the completion was a blessing of the New Year, and the participant that manages to catch the talesman, the bulls testicle, would be granted good luck for the year. -
Symbols
Up to 9,000 men participate in this festival, wearing little to no clothes, mostly only a Japanese loincloth known as the fundoshi, or sometimes a happi coat over the top. They spend hours running around the temple, passing through a fountain of near freezing water, an act said to purify the soul. -
Significance
The significance of this ritual is to worship the Goddess of Mercy. A 'thousand-armed Kannon" is used as a worship item as marks the beginning of Chugoko Pilgrimage. -
Changes in Celebration
Some changes in this ritual involved changing the use of bull testicles to scented wood, as well as adding child-friendly festivals where children represent their local community. -
Changes to Participation
Instead of the festival including only priests being allowed to participate, the ritual now allows normal people as well as children who believe they want to be cured and gain good luck. People from around the world can participate, but must register in advance and purchase a loincloth. -
Changes in Spectating
During the festival, shops and stores around the festival open their doors to spectators and participators so that they can warm up and chat to others who enjoy the festival. Live music is played long into the night, making people feel happy.