Description

This historical archery contest has been held at Sanjusangendo since the Edo period (1603-1868). Originally, when all the competitors were warriors, the competition would last the entire day and night; now it lasts seven hours. Each year, more than 1,000 archers, all in traditional costume, compete in a contest that taxes both physical strength and mental tenacity. The archers fire several arrows at targets one meter in diameter over a distance of sixty meters to decide the grand champion. An additional bonus is that as the contest takes place on Coming of Age day, many of the spectators will be wearing spectacular kimonos. Admission is free.