Saidaiji Temple

西大寺

Est. 90Okayama, Chugoku

Local Pick

Overview

An ancient temple famous for the Hadaka Matsuri. Japan's wildest festival where thousands of men compete nearly nude.

This 8th-century Shingon temple is peaceful most of the year but explodes to life every February during the Eyo Festival (Hadaka Matsuri), where 10,000 men in loincloths scramble for sacred wooden sticks thrown by a priest. Even outside the festival, the temple's main hall and three-story pagoda are impressive examples of Muromachi architecture.

Local tips

If visiting in February, book accommodation months ahead. The Hadaka Matsuri (third Saturday) fills every hotel in the area.

Practical info

Japanese name: 西大寺
Nearest station: Saidaiji Station (JR Ako Line)
Payment: Cash only

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