Shinto priest takes a beating

(NTV) A Shinto priest has taken a beating as part of a unique annual rite at a shrine in Takahama, Japan.

After the priest reads prayers he gets hit with leafy branches of oak in hope of a prosperous year.

The more leaves fall, the more fruitful the year is believed to be in harvest and fishing.

The priest said the beating was not as painful as he had anticipated.

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