The Winter Purification Ceremony with Firigid Water in Japan

 

Even though it's February, it had been warm and had been warm, the temperature had risen about twenty degrees on and off in Fukui City.

 

But since last week, all of a sudden it started snowing again and became very cold.

It was three weeks ago already, on such a cold day, has been three weeks already at Sakaeno-yashiro Shrine in the center of Fukui City, close to our office, the purification ceremony in midwinter was held.

 

Men in white Byakkon the white loincloth, women in white Nagajuban the white gown robe gathered around and rowed boats in gestures singing songs which is a warm-up exercise called Tori-fune Gyouji (Bird Ship event).

And next, they poured cold water on themselves.

 

I should say that they felt tense literally.

Although I am sure that it was not only fun and enjoyable for them to be a part of this event especially in this cold weather,

I think having a bit of snow makes this event even more perfect.

 

T.S