It's about to get real naked up in here.

This past Saturday I attended the Okayama originated  "Hadaka Matsuri" or "Naked Festival". Specifically naked men and about %95 naked. The festival is held in Saidaiji in the Okayama prefecture not far from Saidaiji station. During this festival hundreds of  men dressed in nothing but some cloth, covering their manly regions all come together to compete in a competition that involves trying to get hold of a wooden rod. In the olden days the rod was paper talismans that were believed to grant good luck. The men must chase and struggle with each other to obtain these special rods which these days also brings money to the people in possession of it.

I was asked by some co-workers to join in but even never seen it before I imagined it's not something I would really enjoy taking part in and after watching I'm happy I made that decision. On the other hand it is something that is quite enjoyable to watch. Being held in late February at 10pm at night also makes it quite a cold event for the participants though occasionally hot water is thrown upon the contestants. Before the actual competition there is also a small firework show and a lot of manly chanting. All in good partially naked fun.

Some young ladies preparing for a pre event performance

Let the nakedness begin!

During the start all the men run around chanting with arms linked

You guys must be cold

There is also a children's competition for young boys earlier.

Here with my festival companion Wei