Yabusame Camp in Towada, Aomori: 3 Days of Mounted Archery Training in Japan
Updated: 4 days ago
Yabusame is traditional Japanese mounted archery, and visiting riders can learn the basics at a dedicated training camp.
From October 28-30, 2026, Horseback in Japan collaborated with Towada Riding Club for a three-day Yabusame (流鏑馬) training camp with nine participants from diverse cultural and riding backgrounds, representing China, Korea, Japan, and the United States.
Different experiences, languages, and cultures, but one shared passion: horses and a curiosity about this unique Japanese tradition.
What Is Yabusame, and What Can You Learn at a Camp?
Yabusame has centuries of history, rooted in samurai horsemanship and Shinto ritual offerings at shrines. Today, riders shoot arrows at targets while galloping along a track, combining horsemanship, archery, discipline, and precise movements.
The traditional Japanese bow, or yumi, is remarkably long—around 2.2 meters. It feels even bigger when you're holding it on a Japanese native horse!
What struck me most, however, was the emphasis on posture, balance, and form. Before drawing the bow or releasing an arrow, you must first establish your position.
Create your foundation first, then let the action follow.
We spent a lot of time learning tachisukashi (立ち透かし), a traditional Japanese riding technique that resembles the English two-point position but differs in important ways. Rather than gripping with the legs, riders support their weight primarily through the stirrups, maintaining a stable upper body while the horse moves under
neath them.
The goal is to stay balanced enough to aim and release an arrow while galloping. Easier said than done, even for experienced riders!
Training Through Rain, Hail, and Everything Between
Aomori's autumn weather gave us an unexpected challenge on Day 1: hail!
We began with Japanese archery practice on the ground before moving to horseback training once the weather settled. We practiced balance and posture without holding the reins, an essential skill when both hands are needed for archery.
By Day 2, many participants were already practicing on horseback with bows and arrows.
There were plenty of corrections, coordination challenges, and awkward moments, but everyone stayed focused and enthusiastic. Seeing the progress over just three days was incredibly rewarding.
Experiencing Yabusame Inside and Out
On our final day, we had the opportunity to wear beautiful Yabusame-inspired costumes, handmade by the riding club staff using recycled kimono fabrics.
Each outfit featured unique colors and traditional patterns, making the experience even more special.
From archery and riding techniques to traditional clothing, the camp offered a glimpse into Yabusame beyond what we usually see in demonstrations.
Three days certainly aren't enough to master this demanding discipline, but they gave us a much deeper appreciation of the skill, precision, and dedication behind it.
Different Languages, Same Love for Horses
After training, we celebrated with yakiniku, beer and Japanese sake! Good food and drinks are part of the fun, too!
What stayed with me most was how naturally everyone connected.
Many participants arrived as solo travelers, having never met one another. By the end, Japanese and international riders were exchanging contacts, sharing photos, and already discussing future adventures.
Maybe we’ll ride together again, in China or the States?
That's one of my favorite parts of organizing horseback experiences. Horses bring people together, regardless of language, nationality, or riding background.
Until Next Time, Towada!
Three days of riding, archery, unpredictable weather, beautiful costumes, and new friendships. Towada has given us some wonderful memories.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone at Towada Riding Club for sharing your knowledge, traditions, and hospitality—and to our wonderful horses for their patience throughout the training.
To all our participants, thank you for your trust, enthusiasm, and willingness to try something new.
We came to Towada to learn Yabusame, but left with much more: new friendships, shared memories, and a deeper appreciation for Japanese equestrian traditions.
— Horseback in Japan 🐴
Interested in experiencing Yabusame yourself?
Our next Yabusame camp is planned for 2027, with dates to be announced after January. If you’d like to be the first to know, get in touch and tell me a little about your riding experience, and I’ll add you to the interest list. A rider who is comfortable with canter can join the program with no prior archery background required. You can also see our other programs on the Service Page, or follow @horseback_in_japan on Instagram for updates.
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