TOKYO (AP) — Dozens of people soaked themselves in painfully icy water and splashed in a pool at a Tokyo shrine on Saturday, according to the Japanese tradition of purifying the soul and praying for good health in the new year.
Mostly half-naked men with only a white loincloth around their hips and some women in white robes took part in the annual cold endurance ritual at the Kanda Myojin, a Shinto shrine in central Tokyo.
About 40 participants jogged around the shrine and did some physical exercises to warm up before entering a pool of knee-high water, further cooled by large chunks of ice.
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They all took turns diving into the pool and pouring water over their heads, using a wooden bucket, while shouting “Egg!” shouted. to pump herself up as other participants and spectators cheered.
Purification is the key to Shinto rituals to keep evil spirits away. Worshipers may also wish for other things, such as road safety, success in business or exams, and a safe delivery.
Shinto is Japan’s indigenous religion that dates back centuries and is part of its culture. It is a form of animism that believes in sacred spirits residing in living things and nature.