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Newlyweds participating in a koshōgatsu celebration in Matsunoyama, Niigata Prefecture. (© Haga Library)
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Abundant snow cushions this man as he is thrown down a 5-meter slope. (© Haga Library)
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The groom is borne to the slope on the back of a festival participant. (© Haga Library)
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The sai no kami ritual is also part of the festival. (© Haga Library)
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Couples who have been through muko nage also participate. (© Haga Library)
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Police officers receive divine favor too. (© Haga Library)
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The groom, with only his upraised arms showing, is boxed in on all sides by shrine parishioners. (© Haga Library)
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Young boys also take part in the ritual. (© Haga Library)
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A formal meal welcoming the new couple to the community. (© Haga Library)
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Men breaking up the barrel in the freezing water. (© Haga Library)
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During the celebration, young children are paraded to pray for their healthy growth. (© Haga Library)
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The men circle the bonfire in the finale to an exciting festival. (© Haga Library)
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Young boys congratulate the bride and her mother-in-law. (© Haga Library)
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The boys are outfitted in traditional wear, including kasuri (ikat, a form of tie-dying seen across much of Asia) kimono and straw sandals. (© Haga Library)
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Part of the celebration involves waving the gohei staff to knock down kakizome, papers on which the first calligraphy of the year has been written. (© Haga Library)
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The children are served a meal after the ceremony. (© Haga Library)
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