Yabusame at Kamakura

Yabusame, or archery from horseback is now only a showcase event. We went to the Kamakura exhibition because when Kamakura was the capitol, they got serious about their archery skills here. Plus, it's very close to where we live, so we could make sure it was going to be a nice day before going!
There are three targets. They are judged on accuracy and speed. This is target #2. Not everyone hits all three, or gets an arrow off. It's all about reloading, drawing the bow, and hitting the target, all while the horse runs at full speed. The archers set so smooth in the saddle. It's like they were floating on the back of their horses.
The pageantry was wonderful. It was held at Hachimangu Shrine, the largest in Kamakura. I also loved how the Japanese hat was curled up, much like an American cowboy hat. Click to see what I mean.
Again, the Shinto Priests were all a part of the fanfare. They went in two groups, each group got two attempts. Then, they had the best ones try for a smaller target.
We got early, got a spot, and HELD ON TO IT. There aren't many viewing spots. So, get there early, and get a good place. These people behind us didn't get much of a show.
At each target, when they return, they collect their arrows. The arrows are blunt, probably not to hurt anyone. But it also means they really have to shoot it hard to get a good hit.
Then they come by the judges table, they bow, even on the horse! Double-click to see the picture larger if you want to see what their stirrups were like.
Again, the bowing thing. Most interesting! I loved how the horses were decorated up.
The final group of best archers go for a much smaller target than this. This was for the first 2 groups.
And what it looked like after...
These three sashed ladies are 'Miss Kamakura.' I just thought it was funny. They did many of the announcements in English, as well as Japanese. I kept hearing the word 'gaijin' which means 'foreigners.' I joked with a couple folks that they were announcing that they're telling the archers to shoot the foreigners first!
Walking back to the train station, we saw these folks. The black cat is hunkered down, and Fluffy in the front was embarrassed and turned her head. They were all wearing glasses!

The only way to truly appreciate the sport is to watch it on video. Enjoy!