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March 1, 2026 at 2:00 pm
Event date:
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March 1, 2026 at 6:00 pm
Event end:
History
The Konomiya Hadaka Matsuri, or Naked Festival, is a tradition over 1,200 years old, making it one of Japan’s oldest naked festivals. It began in 767 when Emperor Shotoku ordered governors to perform rituals to ward off evil spirits and disease. Over centuries, the festival evolved into a vibrant celebration meant to drive out bad luck and welcome good fortune for participants and spectators.
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Contact Jasumo Now →Held annually at Konomiya Shrine (Owari Okunitama Jinja) in Inazawa, Aichi Prefecture, the festival combines religious rituals, physical endurance, and community celebration. Only male participants, particularly at ages considered unlucky (24 and 42), take part in carrying portable shrines and performing purification rituals.
The festival is famous nationwide for its dramatic events, including the Shinotoko, or “God Man,” who absorbs bad luck from participants, ensuring good fortune for the community. Its combination of ritual, daring physical feats, and public revelry makes it a unique cultural spectacle.
Overview
The Getting Naked in Konomiya Festival 2026 offers visitors an unforgettable cultural experience. Participants, clad only in white fundoshi loincloths and colored headbands, carry portable shrines through the streets while spectators cheer them on. Groups are splashed with ice-cold water as part of purification rituals, and the festival atmosphere is both raucous and celebratory.
The highlight of the festival is the Shinotoko (God Man) ritual, where one man is chosen to be shaved completely and chased by hundreds of other participants, transferring their bad luck onto him. Visitors can also enjoy festival food stalls, traditional drinks like sake, and take part in observing these centuries-old customs.
Highlights
- Over 1,200-year-old traditional festival with deep cultural roots.
- Male participants in fundoshi loincloths carry portable shrines through the streets.
- Purification rituals include splashing ice-cold water and transferring bad luck.
- Shinotoko ritual: one man absorbs all bad luck while being chased by participants.
- Numerous food and drink stalls and excellent photo opportunities.
Why Jasumo Recommends?
- Experience one of Japan’s oldest and most unique festivals.
- Witness the thrilling Shinotoko ritual and massive participant gathering.
- Immerse yourself in centuries-old cultural traditions and community spirit.
- Enjoy festival food, sake, and vibrant street atmosphere.
- Perfect for photography, cultural exploration, and memorable experiences.
If you’re coming to Japan or are already here, and need help with custom tours, transportation, or booking tickets and more — just contact us through the Contact Us page on Jasumo.
Schedule
- Main Festival Day: Sunday, March 1, 2026
- Main Event Time: 3:00 PM (15:00) — this is when the action peaks, culminating with the Shinotoko being rushed to the shrine.
The festival generally runs from late morning into the afternoon, with various rituals, purification events, and participant activities occurring before the main event.
Pricing
- Admission: Free of charge.
- Food and drink stalls are priced per item, usually very affordable.
Location
Venue: Owari Okunitama Jinja Shrine (Konomiya Shrine)
Address: 1-1-1 Konomiya, Inazawa City, Aichi Prefecture, Japan
Phone: 0587-23-2121
Map Points & Nearby Landmarks:
- Nagoya City: ~20-minute drive; ideal for day-trippers.
- Inazawa Station: ~10-minute taxi ride or ~20-minute walk.
- Konomiya Shopping Street: Nearby shops and restaurants for visitors.
- Parking: Limited at the shrine; public transportation is recommended.
Tips: Dress warmly, as February–March temperatures are very cold. Arrive early for a good viewing spot and to experience all rituals.
Accommodation Options
Visitors can stay in Nagoya, Inazawa, or nearby cities with hotels, ryokans, and guesthouses. Staying in Nagoya is convenient for transportation access and additional sightseeing opportunities.
Average accommodation costs range from ¥6,000 to ¥15,000 per night, depending on type and amenities. Early booking is highly recommended.
FAQs
Who can participate in the festival?
Only male participants, typically at ages considered unlucky (24 and 42), wearing fundoshi loincloths and headbands.
Is the festival open to spectators?
Yes, the festival is free for spectators, who can safely view the events from designated areas.
What is the Shinotoko ritual?
The Shinotoko, or “God Man,” is fully shaved and chased by participants to absorb their bad luck before making prayers at the shrine.
How do I get to Konomiya Shrine?
From Inazawa Station, take a 10-minute taxi or walk ~20 minutes to Owari Okunitama Jinja Shrine.
Are there food and drink options?
Yes, festival stalls provide local food, sake, and traditional snacks, creating a lively festival atmosphere.
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