Naked Festival
Kinryozan Saidaiji Kannon-in, established in 752 AD, is a historic Buddhist temple in Okayama renowned for hosting the annual Hadaka Matsuri (Naked Festival) every third Saturday of February. During this event, thousands of men wearing only fundoshi (loincloths) compete to obtain sacred wooden talismans, a tradition believed to bring good fortune. The temple's Edo-period main hall and three-story pagoda are significant cultural assets, and its serene gardens offer seasonal beauty. Located about a 10-minute walk from JR Saidaiji Station, the temple is also the starting point of the Chūgoku 33 Kannon Pilgrimage Route.