Chugoku · OkayamaFestival
One of Japan’s three great “naked festivals,” where thousands of men in loincloths plunge into darkness to grab a pair of sacred sticks.
Overview
The Saidaiji Eyo, held at Saidaiji Kannon-in temple in Okayama, is one of Japan’s most famous hadaka matsuri (naked festivals), with roots reaching back more than 500 years. On the third Saturday of February, thousands of men wearing only white loincloths pack the temple hall and, at 10 pm, the lights are cut and two sacred shingi sticks are thrown into the crowd. Whoever seizes a stick and plants it upright in a box of rice is named the year’s lucky man. Since 2024 women have taken part in related events as well.
When & Where
Saturday 21 February 2026. The climactic shingi scramble begins around 10 pm, but community events — a children’s version, mochi throwing and torch-lit processions — run from mid-afternoon. Venue: Saidaiji Kannon-in, Okayama City. Nearest station: JR Saidaiji.
Getting There
From Okayama Station take the JR Ako Line to Saidaiji (about 15–20 minutes), then walk roughly 10 minutes to the temple. Okayama itself is a stop on the Sanyo Shinkansen. Crowds are heavy and the night is cold; trains back into the city fill quickly once the climax ends.
What to Expect
Expect a wall of steam rising off thousands of bare shoulders, constant chanting of “wasshoi,” a purification plunge into cold water, and a frantic final scramble in near-total darkness. Food stalls line the temple approach and bonfires help spectators stay warm.
Tickets & Access
Watching from the public areas is free. Paid grandstand seats are usually sold for a clearer view of the 10 pm climax, and taking part as a participant requires registration. Dress very warmly whatever you plan to do.
Tips for Visitors
Arrive well before 10 pm to claim a spot near the hall or grandstands. Bring warm layers and expect jostling crowds. In daytime, pair the trip with Okayama’s Korakuen Garden and Okayama Castle.
Access and Map
| Dates | 21 February 2026 (climax approx. 22:00) |
|---|---|
| Venue | Saidaiji Kannon-in, Okayama City |
| Access | JR Saidaiji Station, 10 min walk |
| Admission | Free to watch; paid grandstand seats available |
| Official site | Explore Okayama |
Source: Explore Okayama (Okayama Prefecture Tourism)
Image: Photo: KQuhen / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0 (license)
