Steam and Spirit


  • Photographer
    Hiroki Anzai
  • Prize
    Honorable Mention
  • Jury Top 5 Selection
  • Date of Photograph
    February 2025
  • Technical Info
    1/200, ISO800, f4.5, Full Frame

In the bitter cold of Hokkaido, Japan, nearly naked men gather at the Yu Matsuri, a traditional winter ritual held at Noboribetsu Onsen. Splashing buckets of hot spring water on each other, they express gratitude for the abundant geothermal blessings and pray for good health in the coming year. The festival embodies both communal strength and spiritual endurance amidst nature’s harshest season.

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