A traditional event at Kyoto's Daigo Temple involved participants lifting a large rice cake while competing for the longest hold time, with the goal of wishing for good health.
On the 23rd, a traditional event called 'Mochi Age Chikara Hounou' took place at the UNESCO World Heritage site Daigo Temple in Fushimi, Kyoto. Competitors lifted a large red and white rice cake, with weights of 150 kg for men and 90 kg for women, and competed to see who could hold it the longest. The event attracted 20 male and 20 female participants, who were cheered on by an enthusiastic crowd.
Among the competitors, Yoshitaka Nishida, a 53-year-old company employee from Moriguchi, Osaka, won the men’s category with a time of 4 minutes and 46 seconds, expressing his surprise and joy at winning. The women's category was won by 54-year-old nurse Harumi Murao from Kyoto, who held the rice cake for 4 minutes and 59 seconds. Both winners credited the loud cheers from the audience as a motivational factor that contributed to their performances.
This event is part of the 'Godairyki Son Ninoe' festivities, which honor the five great kings of strength, including Fudo Myoo. The tradition emphasizes the hope for good health and safety, reflecting the cultural significance of such rituals in Japanese society.
