Hadaka Matsuri
SeasonalChugoku(Okayama)
Annual eventDates
2026-02-21
Venue
Saidaiji Temple (Kinryozan Saidaiji)
Admission
Free
Crowd Level
CrowdedNaked festival at Saidaiji Temple where men compete for sacred sticks.
Hadaka Matsuri at Saidaiji Temple in Okayama is one of Japan's most famous and intense festivals. Around 10,000 men wearing only loincloths compete in freezing February temperatures to grab sacred shingi sticks thrown by the priest, believing the winner will receive a year of good fortune. The festival has over 500 years of history.
Highlights
Thousands of men in loincloths competing for sacred shingi sticks; Purification by splashing cold water in freezing temperatures; The dramatic climax when lights go out and shingi are thrown
Access
10-minute walk from Saidaiji Station (JR Ako Line)
Tips for Visitors
The main event starts around 10:00 PM. Spectators should dress very warmly and arrive hours early for a good vantage point. The surrounding area has food stalls from early evening.