TOKYO. Dating back over 1,200 years, the “hadaka matsuri,” or naked festival, epitomizes Japanese masculinity in a unique spectacle. Across Japan, even amidst the winter chill, thousands of men shed their clothes, retaining only a delicate white loincloth, as they congregate around local shrines. The aim? To maneuver closer to a man embodying the role of “shin-otoko,” or god-man, believed to ward off misfortune.
While this ritual underscores Japan’s deep reverence for tradition and cultural heritage, its exclusion of women underscores a stark reality: gender inequality persists in Japanese society. Despite advancements in various sectors, men continue to dominate top positions in politics and prestigious private firms, with Japan ranking 125th in the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Index.
However, amidst these challenges, the declining population in Japan has sparked a transformative shift. As the number of male participants dwindles in the naked festival, symbolic changes emerge. In February, the Konomiya Shrine, host to Japan’s oldest naked festival, welcomed 41 women to participate for the first time, marking a significant departure from tradition.
Mikiko Eto, emerita professor specializing in gender politics at Hosei University, noted the pragmatic necessity behind this decision, driven by the shortage of male participants. This move signifies a broader societal shift, where the aging population necessitates greater female participation in various spheres, including the labor market.
As Japan grapples with demographic challenges, the workforce is expected to halve by the turn of the century if current fertility rates persist. The government and businesses alike are reevaluating traditional gender roles, striving to create more inclusive environments and alleviate the burdens placed on women.
While there have been notable strides, including women assuming leadership roles in prominent organizations, gender representation in politics and management remains disproportionately low. Experts emphasize the need for innovative policies and cultural shifts to dismantle entrenched biases and stereotypes that hinder women’s advancement.
The inclusion of women in the naked festival and other traditionally male-dominated arenas symbolizes a broader societal reckoning with gender norms in Japan. Yet, the journey towards genuine gender equality remains ongoing, requiring sustained efforts to address systemic barriers and foster inclusive environments.
Paraluman P. Funtanilla
Paraluman P. Funtanilla is Tutubi News Magazine's Marketing Specialist and is a Contributing Editor. She finished her degree in Communication Arts in De La Salle Lipa. She has worked as a Digital Marketer for start-up businesses and small business spaces for the past two years. She has earned certificates from Coursera on Brand Management: Aligning Business Brand and Behavior and Viral Marketing and How to Craft Contagious Content. She also worked with Asia Express Romania TV Show.
