Hori Hachiman Shrine Yabusame Ritual

About this event

Passed down in Akiota Town, Hiroshima Prefecture, this is an authentic Yabusame (horseback archery) ritual with a history of about 600 years. Handed down since Eikyo 11 (1439), it was reorganized into its ancient form in Heisei 3. The heroic ritual, where horse and archer act as one to shoot arrows at 3 targets while galloping down a 140 m track, evokes the traditional elegance of the Muromachi period. This ritual is designated as an Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Hiroshima Prefecture, and is currently the only authentic Yabusame ritual remaining in Hiroshima Prefecture. Originally originating from samurai martial arts training, it later came to be dedicated to shrines as a Shinto ritual praying for continued military fortunes and giving thanks for bountiful harvests. [Details for Reiwa 7] On Saturday, October 4, an eve festival featuring ceremonies and Kagura dance dedications (Hori Kagura Troupe) will be held at Hori Hachiman Shrine. On the following day, Sunday, October 5, the Shinto ritual begins at 13:00, moving to the riding track at 13:30, and the Yabusame archery will take place from 14:00 to 14:30. The event will be held even in light rain.

Venue

Hori Hachiman Shrine

89 Shimodonogouchi, Akiota, Yamagata District, Hiroshima 731-3622