-
February 21, 2026 at 1:00 pm
Event date:
-
February 21, 2026 at 10:00 pm
Event end:
History
The Saidaiji Eyo Hadaka Matsuri, commonly known as the Naked Man Festival, is one of Japan’s oldest and most fascinating festivals, with a history spanning several centuries. Held in Okayama Prefecture, this unique Shinto event is steeped in tradition and symbolizes perseverance, luck, and the communal spirit of the local people.
Are you Visiting Japan soon?
Let us make your trip effortless. From tickets and hotels to transport and local guides, we arrange everything for you or your group. Whether it’s a music festival in Tokyo or a business conference in Osaka, our custom travel service ensures you enjoy the event stress-free.
Contact Jasumo Now →Thousands of men, clad only in traditional Japanese loincloths called fundoshi, brave the freezing February temperatures to compete for sacred bamboo sticks, known as Shingi. These sticks are believed to bring prosperity and good fortune for the year to anyone who manages to grab one. Over time, the festival has become a magnet for both locals and international visitors eager to witness or participate in this extraordinary event.
The festival has its roots in ancient rituals meant to purify participants and the community, transforming the harsh winter into a celebration of endurance and luck. Despite its chaotic appearance, it follows strict traditional protocols, blending spiritual significance with adrenaline-pumping excitement.
Overview
The Saidaiji Naked Man Festival 2026 will be held on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at the Saidaiji Kannon-in Temple in Okayama. The festival begins in the mid-afternoon with community events such as the Shounen Hadaka Matsuri, Mochi Nage (rice cake throwing), Gofukuzutsu Soudatsu, and Houzutsu Soudatsu.
As evening approaches, stage performances, drum shows, and fireworks along the nearby Yoshii River create a lively, festival-like atmosphere. The climax, Shingi Touka, begins at 10:00 PM when thousands of men scramble for the sacred Shingi sticks amid near-total darkness, generating an electrifying experience of chaos and excitement.
For those wishing to participate, festival kits costing ¥3,000 include the loincloth, tabi socks, and changing area access. This provides a fully authentic experience for adventurous visitors seeking to take part in one of Japan’s most unique cultural events.
Highlights
- Thousands of men clad in traditional fundoshi compete for sacred Shingi sticks
- Shingi Touka: the main event where coveted bamboo sticks are thrown into the crowd at 10:00 PM
- Fireworks display along the Yoshii River to complement the evening festivities
- Community events in the afternoon including Mochi Nage, Shounen Hadaka Matsuri, and drum performances
- Retro shopping street of Gofuku-dori open for visitors, offering food, drinks, and warm shelter
Why Jasumo Recommends?
- Witness one of Japan’s most unique and historical festivals in action
- Chance to participate in the Hadaka Matsuri for an unforgettable cultural experience
- Exciting for photographers and adventure seekers alike
- Family-friendly viewing options with designated seating and standing areas
- Engage with local culture and traditions while celebrating winter in Okayama
If you are visiting Japan or already in the country and need assistance with custom tours, transportation, or ticket reservations for the festival, contact us at Jasumo through our contact page for personalized support.
Schedule
Saturday, February 21, 2026
- 3:20 PM – Community events: Shounen Hadaka Matsuri / Mochi Nage / Gofukuzutsu Soudatsu / Houzutsu Soudatsu
- 5:40 PM – Hounou Enbu (dance performances)
- 6:30 PM & 7:30 PM – Eyo Daiko (drum performances)
- 7:00 PM – Eyo Fuyu Hanabi (fireworks along Yoshii River)
- 10:00 PM – Shingi Touka (main sacred stick scramble)
Advance reserved seating: ¥5,000; standing in designated areas: ¥500–1,000
Participation kit for running the festival: ¥3,000
Pricing
- Festival entry: Free
- Advance reserved seating: ¥5,000
- Standing area: ¥500–1,000
- Participation kit: ¥3,000 (loincloth, tabi socks, changing area)
Location
Saidaiji Kannon-in Temple, 3-8-8 Saidaijinaka, Higashi-ku, Okayama-shi, Okayama, Japan
How to Get There
By train: Take the JR Ako Line to Saidaiji Station; the temple is a 10-minute walk south of the station.
By car: Local parking is available near the temple, but the festival attracts large crowds, so public transport is recommended for convenience.
Accommodation Options
Okayama offers a range of accommodation, including budget hotels, mid-range inns, and guesthouses. Prices typically range from ¥5,000–¥12,000 per night depending on type and season.
Staying near Okayama Station or downtown areas provides easy access to the festival, restaurants, and local attractions. Early booking is recommended, as the festival weekend draws significant domestic and international visitors.
Faqs
Can anyone participate in the Naked Man Festival?
Yes, anyone can participate if they register in advance and purchase a festival kit (¥3,000) which includes the loincloth and changing access.
What time does the main Shingi Touka event start?
The Shingi Touka begins at 10:00 PM, when the sacred bamboo sticks are thrown into the crowd.
How cold is the festival in February?
Temperatures are typically around 0°C (32°F), so participants should be prepared for the cold, especially those running in the festival.
Are there viewing options for spectators?
Yes, reserved seating (¥5,000) and standing areas (¥500–1,000) are available near the temple for safe and comfortable viewing.
Is the festival family-friendly?
Absolutely. While the main scramble is intense, there are community events, drum performances, and shopping streets like Gofuku-dori that families can enjoy safely.
Planning a Group Trip to Japan?
From corporate teams to friends traveling together, we create tailor-made travel packages. Enjoy VIP access, curated itineraries, and full support from our local experts. Tell us your plans, and we’ll handle the rest.
Contact Jasumo Now →
Leave a Reply