The Archers of the Far East

Yabusame first appeared in Kyushu in the form of a prayer during Emperor Kinmei's reign 1,600 years ago. The ceremony took place to implore a good harvest, peace and well being. Yet it took another 800 years for 12 "equestrian games" - including Yabusame - to be included in the imperial ceremony. Yabusame soon gained the status of a sacred ritual, carried out by demi-heros.

Photographer
Patricio Estay
Country
Japan
Published
August 2002
Images
60
Reference
010-500001