Nanokado Hadaka Mairi Festival
A traditional unusual festival in which loincloth-clad men climb a rope
The unusual festival known as Nanokado Hadaka Mairi is held annually on the night of 7 January in Yanaizu Town, Fukushima Prefecture amidst the flickering bright light of bonfires.
The festival is held at Fukuman Kokuzo Bosatsu Enzoji Temple. When the enormous bell rings, loincloth-clad men bravely compete amidst the intense cold to race up the 113 stone steps toward Kikkodo Hall (the main hall), and then climb one after another up the sturdy hemp rope hanging from the large gong.
This unusual festival is associated with the legend that the people put their power together to drive away the dragon god who lives in the Tadami River. All men regardless of their age can participate. A changing area is also prepared, so how about participating to pray for a year of happiness and good health? Many tourists visit each year to see the sight of these brave men.
The festival is held at Fukuman Kokuzo Bosatsu Enzoji Temple. When the enormous bell rings, loincloth-clad men bravely compete amidst the intense cold to race up the 113 stone steps toward Kikkodo Hall (the main hall), and then climb one after another up the sturdy hemp rope hanging from the large gong.
This unusual festival is associated with the legend that the people put their power together to drive away the dragon god who lives in the Tadami River. All men regardless of their age can participate. A changing area is also prepared, so how about participating to pray for a year of happiness and good health? Many tourists visit each year to see the sight of these brave men.
- Address
- 福島県河沼郡柳津町寺家町甲176
- Telephone Number
- 0241-42-2346
- Opening Times
- From 20:00
- Prices
- Free
- Duration
- Notes