13th Kawagoe Yabusame (Horseback Archery)

About this event

This event recreates the Yabusame (horseback archery) that was practiced during the Kamakura period at the Kawagoe-yakata Site, a nationally designated historic site. By utilizing the fortified residence grounds of the Musashi samurai Kawagoe clan and reviving the horseback archery that served as part of their martial arts training, the event aims to raise awareness of the Kawagoe-yakata Site and foster citizens' appreciation for cultural property preservation. The day will feature folk performing arts demonstrations, a departure ceremony (shutsujin-shiki), and the yabusame ritual. The martial demonstration will be conducted by the Washiki Kiba-kai, offering ceremonial mounted archery according to Kamakura period etiquette using native Japanese horses and historical attire. In addition, a special exhibition of festival float dolls associated with Lord Kawagoe Shigeyori will be held, adding to the venue's historic atmosphere. Viewing is free, but details and times are subject to change depending on the weather. The event goes ahead in rain, but will be cancelled in severe weather.

Venue

Kawagoe-yakata Site

194 Joudo, Kawagoe, Saitama 350-0816