Guida
Saidaiji Eyo is a traditional Shinto ritual held at Saidaiji (Kannon-in), a prestigious temple of the Koyasan Shingon sect in Higashi-ku, Okayama City. Often referred to as the 'Naked Festival,' it is celebrated as one of Japan's three most unusual festivals. Held annually on the third Saturday of February, the sight of men wearing only loincloths (mawashi) engaging in a fierce struggle for the sacred wooden sticks (shingi) is truly overwhelming. The intense passion of those striving to become the 'Lucky Man' (Fuku-otoko) is a spectacle unique to Saidaiji during this season.
The history of this festival is ancient, with origins tracing back to the Nara period. It is said to have begun with the New Year's prayer services (Shushekai) passed down by Jitsuchu, a high-ranking disciple of Ryoben Sojo of Todai-ji Temple. The current form of the festival—where men fight for wooden sticks while naked—originated from an event in 1510. It is told that when people rushed to claim the protective amulets distributed to pilgrims, they stripped to ensure freedom of movement, which eventually became the tradition of the Eyo ritual. It has been cherished as a local tradition and a symbol of folk faith for centuries.
The greatest highlight is the dropping of the sacred sticks and the subsequent battle for them in the middle of the night. Once the two wooden sticks are thrown from the window of the main hall, approximately 10,000 men rush forward with shouts of 'Wassho, Wassho!' Those who manage to grasp the sticks and reach outside the Nio Gate are recognized as the 'Lucky Men' of the year. Other rituals, such as the carving of the sticks and the water purification ceremonies performed by women, also build the atmosphere leading up to the main event. The dynamic ritual unfolding within the solemn grounds of the historic main hall, three-story pagoda, and the important cultural property Korean Bell, offers an unparalleled experience.
Saidaiji Eyo is a seasonal event held specifically on the third Saturday of February. The main event, the dropping of the sacred sticks, currently takes place at 22:00. Because it is a night-time event, the area becomes incredibly crowded and energetic. Various rituals and ceremonies are held in the days leading up to the main event, allowing visitors to witness different facets of the temple's atmosphere throughout the period. The contrast between the freezing February night and the intense heat of the crowd is a defining characteristic.
As a general spectator, you can watch the intense fervor of the festival from paid viewing seats. For those wishing to participate directly to become a 'Lucky Man,' prior registration is required, and you must follow strict rules such as wearing the designated loincloth (mawashi) and removing glasses or jewelry. Eligibility is for men of junior high school age or older, with no tattoos or alcohol consumption permitted. Additionally, a 'Junior Naked Festival' for elementary school children is also held, making it a tradition enjoyed by various generations.
The area around Saidaiji retains much of its historical charm. The grounds of Saidaiji Kannon-in feature several important cultural properties, including the Korean Bell, the Nio Gate, a three-story pagoda, and the Koso-do hall, which are peaceful to visit even outside the festival season. Nearby shops also sell 'Sasa-no-ha Senbei' (bamboo leaf crackers), a famous local specialty that has been produced since the Edo period, allowing you to feel the local tradition.