Crying Baby Festival in Japan

It happens in Japan, where sumo wrestlers take part in Nakizumo, the “Crying Baby Festival,” a ceremony

that has been practiced for over 400 years. Each wrestler gently holds a baby in his arms,

facing another wrestler holding another child. The goal is simple — to see which baby

cries first. To an outsider, it might look strange. But to the families watching,

it’s a blessing. The belief is ancient: a baby’s loud, healthy cry drives away evil spirits

and brings good fortune, growth, and strong life energy.

A silent child means the community must work harder to protect their future. So when the babies

cry, the parents smile — not out of cruelty, but hope. The wrestlers don’t