The “Kanamara Matsuri” is a Japanese festival also known as the “Festival of the Steel Penis.” The celebration takes place in Kawasaki, a city near Tokyo, on the first Sunday of April, and is known for its processions featuring large penis statues, which symbolize fertility and male virility. The event attracts tourists from all over the world and is one of the most unusual and peculiar festivals in Japan.
The large penis statues that are carried in procession are the most recognized symbol of the festival and represent male reproductive capacity. Women also participate in the festival and carry small penis statues to pray for fertility and health.
In addition to the procession of penis statues, the festival also includes other activities such as dance performances, traditional Japanese food, and the sale of souvenirs. Many tourists visit the festival to take photos with the statues and participate in the celebration.
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Origin of Kanamara Matsuri
The “Kanamara Matsuri” originated during the Edo period (1603-1868), when prostitutes from the Kawasaki district began to pray at the Kanayama Shrine for protection against sexually transmitted diseases. At that time, syphilis and gonorrhea were common among sex workers and the men who visited brothels.
The prostitutes believed that the Kanayama Shrine had healing powers, so they made offerings and prayers to protect themselves from diseases. The shrine was also frequented by artisans who worked with metal, such as blacksmiths and locksmiths, who prayed for protection against workplace accidents.
Over time, the Kanayama Shrine became a pilgrimage site for people seeking protection against sexually transmitted diseases and issues related to virility. The penis festival was created to raise funds for the shrine and also to celebrate fertility and male virility.
Curiosities of Kanamara Matsuri
The festival has been celebrated for over 300 years, making it one of the oldest celebrations in Japan. In addition to penis statues, the festival also includes other phallic symbols, even food.
Although it may seem strange to some people, during the “Kanamara Matsuri” and other phallic festivals in Japan, it is common to find food in the shape of a phallus. These foods are sold at stalls and can include skewers, sausages, ice creams, candies, cookies, crepes, and others.
The profits from the festival are donated to organizations that work on the prevention and treatment of sexually transmitted diseases.
The Kanamara Matsuri is also known as the “Festival of the Steel Penis” because, according to legend, one of the statues was made of steel to prevent it from breaking during transport.
The festival also attracts the attention of international media and is often mentioned as an example of Japan’s unique and eccentric culture.
Hounen Matsuri – Another Phallic Festival
The “Honen Matsuri” is celebrated annually in Komaki, Aichi Prefecture, and is one of the oldest festivals in Japan. The celebration takes place in March and is also known for its processions featuring a large phallic statue, which is carried through the streets of the city by participants.
The statue is then taken to the local shrine, where it is put on display. The festival attracts many tourists who visit the city to participate in the celebration. It is likely that other smaller similar festivals also take place in Japan.
Both festivals are examples of how Japanese culture celebrates fertility and male virility. Although they may seem strange to some people, these festivals have deep historical roots and are a way to honor the ancient traditions of Japan.
Furthermore, the celebration of fertility and male virility is seen as a way to give thanks for a good harvest and prosperity in life. “Honen” (豊年) is a Japanese word that also means “abundant harvest.”
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