Japanese Tradition: Bathing in Icy Water to Purify the Soul at Tokyo Shrine
In a chilling yet powerful display of endurance, dozens of people immersed themselves in icy waters at a Tokyo shrine on Saturday, following a centuries-old Japanese tradition of purification and prayer for good health in the new year.
The annual ritual, held at the Kanda Myojin Shrine in downtown Tokyo, saw participants—mostly half-naked men dressed only in white loincloths and several women clad in white robes—braving the cold waters to cleanse their souls. Approximately 40 individuals gathered to take part in this traditional Shinto ceremony.
Before plunging into the icy pool, the participants engaged in physical exercises and a light jog around the shrine to warm up their bodies. They then entered a knee-deep pool filled with frigid water, further cooled by large chunks of ice. One by one, the participants dipped into the pool, pouring icy water over their heads using wooden buckets while chanting “Ei!” to energize themselves, as fellow participants and onlookers cheered them on.
The practice of bathing in cold water is deeply rooted in Shinto rituals, which emphasize purification to ward off evil spirits. While the main goal is to purify the soul, participants also pray for various blessings—such as good health, safe travels, success in business or exams, and safe childbirth.
Shinto, Japan’s indigenous religion, is based on animism and the belief that sacred spirits reside in living beings and nature. The cold-water ritual serves as a reminder of the deep connection between spirituality and nature, reflecting the importance of purification in Japanese culture.
