Shiraito Cold Water Purification Ritual (Shiraito Kanmisogi)

About this event

'Shiraito Kanmisogi' is a traditional ritual held late at night on the 3rd Saturday of every December in the Kawatsuki River running near Kumano Shrine in Shiraito, Itoshima City, Fukuoka Prefecture. In freezing cold with water temperatures below 5 degrees Celsius, men clad in shimekomi loincloths enter the river and courageously splash water on each other. Meanwhile, men born in the current Chinese zodiac year wash rice upstream and pray for bountiful crops, good health, and longevity in the coming year depending on how well the rice cooks. Continuing since the Muromachi period, this brave ritual is a winter tradition wishing for regional safety and abundance. Spectating is free of charge, but since it is a late-night event in a mountainous area, ample precautions against the cold, careful footwork, and transportation planning are required. Please check the latest announcements for the exact starting time.

Venue

Kumano Shrine (Former Site of Shozo-ji Temple)

684 Shiraito, Itoshima, Fukuoka 819-1154