Kanamara Matsuri "Festival of the Steel Phallus"
かなまら祭
An annual Shinto festival at Kanayama Shrine in Kawasaki featuring distinctive phallic imagery in decorations and parades while raising funds for HIV research.
The Kanamara Matsuri, often referred to as the "Festival of the Steel Phallus", is an annual Shinto event held at the Kanayama Shrine in Kawasaki, Japan.
Historically, the Kanayama Shrine has been associated with prayers for fertility, protection against sexually transmitted infections, and blessings for prosperous marriages and smooth childbirths. During the Edo period (1603–1868), it was frequented by sex workers seeking divine protection.
The festival is renowned for its vibrant and unconventional celebrations, where phallic imagery is prominently featured in decorations, candy, and even a mikoshi (portable shrine) parade. Three primary mikoshi are paraded:
Kanamara Mikoshi: Houses a wooden phallus and is the oldest of the three.
Kanayama Boat Mikoshi: Features a black iron phallus and has a boat-shaped base.
Elizabeth Mikoshi: Showcases a large pink phallus and was donated by the cross-dressing club "Elizabeth Kaikan".
Beyond its festive atmosphere, the Kanamara Matsuri serves a philanthropic purpose by raising funds for HIV research and promoting awareness about sexual health.
The event attracts a diverse crowd, including international tourists, who are drawn to its unique cultural significance and lively celebrations.
You might also like
Ohara Hadaka Festival
The 'Naked Festival' features mikoshi carried into the sea, a boisterous parade through town, and shrines tossed high against fireworks and songs of joy.
23–24 Sep 2026Isumi · Chiba
Fukagawa Matsuri
One of Tokyo's three greatest Shinto festivals, this mid-August celebration centers on water-splashing processions with portable shrines through the city.
15 Aug 2026Tokyo
Sanja Matsuri
Sanja Matsuri is one of Tokyo's largest traditional festivals, honouring enshrined figures through mikoshi processions and an Intangible Folk Cultural Property ritual dance.
15–17 May 2027Tokyo
Kumano Taisha Shrine
One of three major Kumano shrines in Japan, Kumano Taisha was established in 806 and is known as the Ise Shrine of the North for its significance.
Nanyo · Yamagata
Kanayama Shrine
Shrine dedicated to metalworking deities, famous for the annual Kanamara Matsuri celebrating fertility and well-being, with origins in the Edo period.
Kawasaki · Kanagawa
Hakone Shrine
Hakone Shrine, Motohakone, Hakone, Kanagawa, was founded in 757 on the shores of Lake Ashi and is known for its Heiwa no Torii, a red torii gate standing in the lake.
Hakone · Kanagawa