Yabusame

Photo courtesy of Pandabonium. Copyright @ Pacific Islander

Yabusame - ritual mounted archery
Yabusame was designed as a way to please and entertain the myriad of gods that watch over Japan, thus encouraging their blessings for the prosperity of the land, the people, and the harvest.

Animals are sacred in Shinto, acting as messengers between the gods and humans. The white horse represents purity and is believed to drive off evil spirits.

Click for more on May celebrations and archery competitions
from Pandabonium @ Yabusame & Rice Planting festival from Japan
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