OSHU, Iwate -- The traditional Somin-sai festival, known as one of the three most bizarre festivals in Japan, will come to an end after its final event in February next year, a temple here ...

OSHU, Iwate -- Loincloth-clad men competed to grab a sack containing talismans in prayer for sound health as one of Japan's three most bizarre festivals was held in this north Japan city for the ...

The vast majority of festivals in Japan are not unusual. Then, there are some that are referred to as "kisai" (奇祭) or "strange festival." This is one of those.

The camels won. Furano, located in the heart of Hokkaido, Japan is known for its lavender fields and ski resort, but also for — the Belly Button Festival, first celebrated in 1969.

In a mountain town, schoolboys in traditional loincloths keep up a 300-year tradition. The hadaka matsuri festivals, rooted in Shinto tradition, take place to bring purification, luck and prosperity.

In graying Japan, many festivals are struggling to survive. Not a Premium subscriber? Consider the benefits of unlimited access.