In the 1930s and 40s, the banks of the Matsukawa River in Ito City, Japan were lined with people washing their laundry in small tubs. But since 1955 the tubs have become boats, and each year the locals and visitors participate in one interesting competition.
More than 200 people are here to try their luck in the 54th annual tub boat race.

30 heats including women, men, children, and teams are racing down a 400 meter stretch of the river.

Half the fun depends on out-paddling fellow racers, and the other half requires keeping the tub afloat without falling out.

*I’m pretty sure I want to be best friends with Ichiro Sakamoto.