On the evening of February 21, six men were hospitalized following injuries sustained during the 'Saidaiji Eyo' Naked Festival held at the Saidaiji Kannon-in temple in the Higashi Ward of Okayama City. According to local fire department reports, three of the injured individuals are currently in a state of unconsciousness, raising concerns about their conditions. The festival, which is recognized as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Asset by the government, attracts many participants who engage in a fierce competition for a piece of wood believed to bring good fortune.

The Saidaiji Eyo festival is known for its unique practices, where men, dressed only in traditional loincloths, engage in a chaotic scramble for the 'shingi,' or treasure wood, which is symbolic in Japanese culture. This competition is intended to invoke blessings and prosperity for the year ahead. The event, while exhilarating and spirited, can sometimes lead to accidents, which appears to have occurred this year with several participants reportedly getting injured during the fray.

The local community and organizers are now faced with the aftermath of these injuries and the implications for future events. The safety protocols at such traditional festivals may need to be reassessed to prevent further incidents and ensure the well-being of participants, especially given the severe condition of some of those injured. This incident highlights the balance between maintaining cultural traditions and prioritizing participant safety, a concern that is increasingly relevant in public events across the globe.