The first swimming competition of "Mizuto-ryu", a swimming method used by samurai in the Takamatsu domain during the Edo period, was held on the coast of Takamatsu City on the 3rd.
The old-fashioned swimming method "Mizuto-ryu" was designated as an intangible cultural property of Takamatsu City in 1979 when the first feudal lord of the Takamatsu domain learned it as one of the martial arts.
Every year, the first swimsuit is held on New Year's Day, and after a Shinto ritual to pray for the safety of one year is held on the 3rd at Omatoba Beach in Takamatsu City, the members of the Mizunori Preservation Society, etc. Up to 12 people changed into swimsuits and loincloths and slowly entered the sea.
Participants swam in the cold sea with a water temperature of 8.5 degrees Celsius, holding colored paper and brushes, and writing "Yang Water Tiger" (Mizu no Etora).
In addition, he showed off traditional swimming methods such as stretching his hands to the side and twisting his legs.
A woman in her 40s, who participates every year, said, "I am grateful that I was able to participate in my first swim for good health. I changed my life in Corona, but I swam while thinking that my smile would increase." I was there.