In Japan, crying isn’t always a bad thing — at least not if you’re a baby. Every spring, at several Shinto temples across the country, a centuries-old tradition known as Naki Sumo (the Crying Baby Festival) turns tears into blessings.
What Is the Crying Baby Festival?
During Naki Sumo, sumo wrestlers lift babies in their massive arms and try to make them cry. The louder the wail, the better! While it may look a little strange to outsiders, this ritual has deep cultural roots. According to Japanese belief, a baby’s strong cry is a sign of good health and is thought to scare away evil spirits.
The festival’s motto says it all: “Naku ko wa sodatsu” — “Crying babies grow fast.”
How It Works
Dozens of parents bring their infants to the temple, where they’re paired with sumo wrestlers dressed in traditional attire. Once the referee gives the signal, each wrestler gently bounces or makes faces at the baby, hoping for that first tiny scream. Sometimes they wear masks or shout “Naki! Naki!” (“Cry! Cry!”) to encourage the little ones.
The first baby to burst into tears is declared the winner — though, in truth, every baby gets the blessing. Priests then pray for the children’s health, safety, and happiness in the year ahead.
Why It’s So Loved
To outsiders, it might seem odd to celebrate crying. But for Japanese parents, Naki Sumo is a joyful moment that combines humor, tradition, and a wish for good fortune. The laughter of the crowd mixes with the babies’ cries, creating a lively and heartwarming atmosphere that feels uniquely Japanese.
If you ever happen to be in Tokyo or Kanagawa in late April, you might witness this unusual sight — sumo wrestlers, proud parents, and dozens of tiny contestants competing in the world’s most adorable “crying match.”