Thousands of Men Fight for Luck at 'Naked Festival' in Japan

inazawa, japan - Nearly 8000 men gather in Inazawa city for the Konomiya Naked Festival, a 1250-year-old tradition at a local Shinto shrine.

Annual Tradition at Owariōkunitama Shrine

Almost 8000 men, dressed only in loincloths, gathered in Inzawa city for the Konomiya Naked Festival. This tradition, held at the Owariōkunitama Shrine, dates back 1250 years. During the festival, one man, known as the 'god-man', takes center stage. It is believed that he can ward off misfortune. This year, 26-year-old Ryota Kato assumed the role of the god-man.

Leading up to the festival, Kato was secluded from the outside world. On the day of the event, he was shaved from head to toe and sent into the crowd naked. The festival originated centuries ago to combat plagues and epidemics, but has now evolved into a popular tourist attraction. The men in loincloths are also doused with ice-cold water during the festivities.