Today we have an annual Japanese archery competition here.
Young men and women (age 20),who have an experience of archery, gather at this big Temple,and compete with each other.
Another meaning of this event is a cerebration of coming-of-age.
This traditional event dates back to Edo era.
About 600 years ago,samurai people competed their skills of archery at this Temple,and that is the origin of this event.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gEzWiN6XaAQ&feature=related
They wear special costume,called "Hakama".
Today is the long-awaited day for them.
They practiced strenuously for today's competition.
They focus all of their concentration on a target...
(To be continued)
Like many others, this is a wonderful tradition, well kept in mythical Kyoto. The parade of beautiful kimone-s is amazing, Kumiko! Thank you for sharing.
ReplyDelete@Traveling Hawk,
DeleteThank you,Traveling Hawk.
I'm very happy if you like it.
And I recommend this temple.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NDikVpgzFrc
It takes about 10 minutes from JR Kyoto by municipal bus to this temple.(The bus number is 100,or 206,or 208,and get off at "Hakubutsukan-Sanju-sangendou-mae").