To pray for safety on the way to the Aoi Festival, the "Yabusame Shinji" was held on May 3, 2023 at Shimogamo Shrine in Sakyo Ward, Kyoto City. This year, for the first time in four years, it was held in front of a large number of spectators, and in the fresh greenery, 30,000 spectators (announced by the organizer) were fascinated by the lively performance of the horse and rider as one.
The shrine's Yabusame ritual is said to have a history of more than 1,000 years. In 2020 and 2021, due to the spread of the new coronavirus, only some Shinto rituals were held, and last year the number of spectator seats was reduced, but this year the event was held without restrictions.
Archers dressed in the attire of court nobles and samurai rode five horses, ran a total of 20 times on a 500-meter stable, and drew their bows while shouting. When all three targets were hit, there was loud cheers and applause.
Frank Reimer (57), a schoolteacher from the Netherlands, said, "I also enjoy horseback riding, but it would be very difficult to shoot a bow from a horse. The techniques and costumes are very beautiful.".
