One man in his 40s has regained consciousness after falling unconscious during the Okayama 'Naked Festival', while two others remain in critical condition according to local police.
On February 21, during the 'Saidaiji Eyo' celebration at Saidaiji Kannon-in in Okayama's Higashi ward, three participants fell unconscious, leaving one male in his 40s recovering consciousness. The Okayama Prefectural Police reported this recovery by February 27, while the conditions of the other two men remain serious and without change. The festival, also known as the 'Naked Festival', is a recognized important intangible folk cultural asset and involves a contest for a sacred wooden stick, known as 'Shingi', where participants compete in their traditional attire in hope of blessings.
The 'Saidaiji Eyo' is celebrated annually and has a reputation for its intense, spirited participation. Incidents at such large events are not uncommon due to the chaotic nature of the crowd as participants, known as 'Hadaka-shu', vie for the Shingi amidst a throng of people. Despite previous safety measures instituted, the organizers and local authorities acknowledge that such festivals often encounter unexpected situations leading to accidents.
The incident not only underscores the importance of safety protocols at large public gatherings but also raises awareness regarding the need for improved crowd management practices during traditional celebrations. The community's response and continuous monitoring of the health of the participants reflect the ongoing commitment to ensuring safety while preserving cultural heritage, highlighting the balance between tradition and modern safety measures.
