
Springfestival
Kawasaki Kanamara Festival
Kawasaki City, Kanagawa
About the Event
Looking for a truly unique and unforgettable experience during your Kawasaki City travel? Then you absolutely must witness the Kanamara Matsuri, a vibrant and undeniably quirky Japanese festival held annually in Kawasaki City, Kanagawa. This one-of-a-kind matsuri, often translated as the "Festival of the Steel Phallus," celebrates fertility, safe childbirth, and marital harmony. Its roots lie in the Edo period, when prostitutes prayed for protection from STIs.
Today, the Kanamara Festival is a joyous celebration featuring elaborately decorated floats carrying phallic symbols of all sizes. Witness the Mikoshi procession, where participants proudly parade these symbols through the streets. Enjoy traditional Japanese festival food, and marvel at the unique sweets and souvenirs available. While there are no fireworks or traditional dance performances typically associated with other Japanese festivals, the sheer spectacle of the Kanamara Matsuri makes it a must-see Japan cultural event. It's a truly unforgettable experience that offers a fascinating glimpse into Japanese folklore and a celebration of life itself. Don't miss this incredible and thought-provoking Japanese festival!