Naked festival, competition decided to be canceled after organizing organization, fatal accident - Okayama

On the 20th, the organizing organization (Okayama City) of Saidaiji Eyo (naked festival), an important intangible folk cultural property of the country, decided to cancel next year's ``Treasure Tree Battle,'' in which men in mawashi costumes compete for amulets called ``Shingi.'' At this year's festival, two participants died due to physical stress.

Man in critical condition dies at naked festival; 2 participants dead - Okayama Prefectural Police

The Naked Festival, considered one of Japan's three most bizarre festivals, is held every February at Saidaiji Kannon-in Temple in Higashi Ward, Okayama City. It has a history of more than 500 years, dating back to the Muromachi period, and about 10,000 people participate in the climactic battle each year. It is said that acquiring a treasured tree will bring safety to one's family and prosperity in business for a year, and fierce competition is fought to acquire it.

This year, three men, including two who died, suffered cardiopulmonary arrest. In 2007, a participant died after being crushed under a crowd. A review committee made up of experts is scheduled to compile recommendations by December, and the organizing organization has decided that it is not possible at this stage to proceed with preparations for the event while taking all possible safety measures.