Every year, on a blistering hot day in late July, hundreds of armor-clad participants on horseback parade through the streets of Minamisoma, Fukushima Prefecture, during the Soma Nomaoi festival.
Given the rich history of this tradition, it is clear to see why horses are so revered by the people of Minamisoma. The ancient Soma Nomaoi was believed to be used as a military exercises dating back over 1,000 years ago with several changes to the event being made across generations. Nonetheless, modern iterations serve as a celebration for the local community within the Fukushima Prefecture.
While Minamisoma retains an obvious love for horses, the future of the festival remains unclear, with the number of participants falling year by year. Despite the decline in interest, young horse rider Shohei Yoshida’s passion for the event remains unwavering and he is currently looking for news ways to attract new audiences. Link in bio. (📸 Jerfarzeza Daviano / Manami Okazaki)
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Alo Japan.