Cancelled event
Last updated: Feb 5, 2021Held annually in March, Urasa's Naked Pushing Festival lays claim to being one of Japan's most unique winter events. The festival takes part in the streets surrounding the Bishamondo Temple and has a history that dates back more than 1200 years.
Men who are dressed in little more than a white loincloth and traditional sandals push and jostle their way to be first in line to worship Bishamon, the temple God of war and wealth. Crowds line the streets surrounding the temple to cheer the participants on, and the atmosphere is fun and jovial. The main event is held after sunset, but there are plenty of activities on in the streets around the temple during the day - including plenty of tasty festival food to enjoy.
Getting there
The Urasa Naked Pushing Festival centers around the Bishamondo Temple, a short 5 minute walk from Urasa Station. Urasa Station is easily accessible from Tokyo in approximately 90 minutes via the Joetsu Shinkansen.
Kim @kim.b
I'm an expat who has lived abroad for almost a decade, including 7 years in Japan. I've also visited 44 of 47 prefectures and hope to get to the last three someday! I'm particularly fond of exploring off the beaten path destinations, gardens, and tea houses, and have a real interest in Japan's gr...
