The traditional 'Naked Festival' at Kokunomiya Shrine in Inazawa City, Aichi Prefecture, took place on Sunday, drawing a massive crowd of approximately 60,000 people, amplified by favorable weather conditions and coinciding with the main festival day. Among the festivities, the 'Shinotoko,' or the god-man who bears the people's misfortunes, was enthusiastically welcomed by the crowd, highlighting the communal spirit of the event as participants sought to rid themselves of bad luck by touching him.

This year’s Shinotoko, Yuki Kimura, a 26-year-old employee from Ichinomiya City, was seen parading along the sacred path, draped only in a traditional loincloth. He had spent three days and nights purifying himself at the shrine before making his appearance, which culminated in a spirited performance amidst chaotic interactions among participants, all trying to bathe him with cold water to enhance the tradition.

However, contextually significant to this year’s event are the tragic accidents of 2003 and 2018, where participants lost their lives during the festival. In response, Kokunomiya Shrine has issued safety guidelines on their website, outlining prohibited behaviors such as dangerous activities and alcohol consumption, along with suggestions for maintaining safety and order among the large crowd, reflecting the organizers’ commitment to ensuring a safe celebration despite its inherent challenges.