Hori Hachiman Shrine Yabusame (Horseback Archery) Ritual

About this event

Handed down since 1439 (Eikyo 11) in the Muromachi period, this is Hiroshima Prefecture's only authentic Yabusame (horseback archery) ritual. Although temporarily suspended in the past, it was revived in 1991 (Heisei 3) in its traditional form. The valiant sight of horse and rider moving as one, shooting through three targets from a galloping horse along a 140-meter track, evokes the elegant atmosphere of ancient times. This ritual boasts about 600 years of history and tradition, and is designated as an Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Hiroshima Prefecture. It originally originated from the martial arts training of samurai warriors and was later dedicated to the shrine, becoming a ritual for everlasting military fortunes and thanksgiving for bountiful harvests. On the day before, a festival and kagura dedication will be held as an eve celebration, followed on the festival day by rituals and the yabusame demonstration. The event will proceed in light rain.

Venue

Hori Hachiman Shrine

89 Shimotonogouchi, Akiota-cho, Yamagata-gun, Hiroshima 731-3622