Celebrating the end of 14 days of worship after the new year, the Shittenoji Doya Doya Festival sees dozens of loincloth-clad men and boys being doused in very cold water as they compete in teams for banknotes . The competitors are made up of students from local high-schools that have a historic connection with the temple. They shout “doya doya” – the Japanese onomatopoeia for the sound of thundering footsteps – as they are soaked. The atmosphere is energetic with a highly competitive edge. You can watch from the temple grounds, but crowds gather early, so be there in the morning to get a good spot.
To prevent the spread of COVID-19, many events have been canceled. Always check official sites before heading to an event.Shittenoji Doya Doya Festival
-
Fuji Shibazakura Festival
Japan is an anthophile’s dream: chrysanthemums, camellias, wisteria, and the mighty cherry blossom abound, and it seems that every region and city has a gorgeous formal garden landscaped to showcase the bloom of the moment. In Yamanashi Prefecture, the star […]
¥600 (on the door) -
Higashiomi Giant Kite Festival
On the last Sunday of May each year, Higashiomi in Shiga Prefecture hosts a festival in which enormous traditional kites are hauled into the air by teams of up to 100 people. The festival features local kites as well as […]
9:20am – 3:00pmFree -
Fuji Delicious Food Festival
Walk a mile in Japan and you’ll come across another regional food specialty you just have to try. Running concurrently with the Fuji Shibazakura Festival, and situated at the same location, the Mt Fuji Delicious Food Festival will save your […]
9:00am – 5:00pm¥600 (on the door) -
Kashima Gatalympics
CancelledIf you’re a bit puzzled what a ‘Gatalympics’ might be then an easier way to think of this festival is ‘fun with mud’. The event takes place on the mudflats on the Ariake Sea next to Kashima City in Saga […]
Free