The 780-year-old tradition began before dawn at Kushida Shrine, as the first team launched a five-kilometre dash through the city. Six more groups followed at five-minute intervals, cheered on by crowds who doused them with water.
The festival, recognised by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage, combines religious ritual with a demanding physical challenge.
To combat falling numbers, organisers opened online applications and encouraged children to join.
The event takes place annually over 15 days in the first half of July.
