Yabusame -- Japanese Horseback Archery

Click on an image to see an enlargement.

Loading...
Kamakura Hachimangu (a Shinto shrine) is a focal point of Japanese martial arts. Pro stock photographer Andy Barker took me and fellow student Vikas for a trip back in time.
Loading...
The target was a pinewood board which shattered satsifyingly with every hit, showering the audience with splinters.
There is much parading in build up to the brief bursts of action.
Loading...
Pages provide a bold splash of colour.
Loading...
Loading...
I think smiling was strictly forbidden.
Loading...
This guy was carrying a bow but he didn't ride. Perhaps a footsoldier of some kind.
The grimmest of the grim. I wouldn't want to meet this fellow in a dark alley.
Loading...
On the other hand, no amount of archer's garb could make this guy look less like a salaryman.
Loading...
Loading...
If some of the archers looked severe, the archery master looked like God's older brother.
Loading...
Look Mummy, no hands!
Crunch! I'm glad I wasn't standing on that side.
Loading...
Jubilation! There were three targets at intervals down the course, which was about 200 metres long. Most of the riders hit the first target...
Loading...
Loading...
...but many of them missed the second if they were slow to take out the next arrow.
Loading...
Some riders hit all three targets however. This one is so pleased that he's almost forgetting not to smile.
It was a long hot day, but a job well done.
Loading...
Riding off into the sunset.
Loading...
Loading...




HOME CONTACT ME NEWS GALLERIES WRITINGS CV