SEE: 流鏑馬YABUSAME: SAMURAI HORSE-MOUNTED ARCHERY🏹plus WASEDA AREA HISTORY TOUR!

Join us on October 13th, when the Chiba-Tokyo Art & Culture Explorers, will enjoy a delightful day in Bunkyo Ward, home to famous Waseda University, and much more!

We will start by exploring ancient "Ana-Hachimangu", an elegant Shinto shrine, and ornate "Hojo-ji" its beto-ji, or associated Buddhist temple, both of which are located high on the hill above Waseda University.

Each year on UNDO NO HI, or Japanese National Sports Day, Ana-Hachimangu presents a demonstration of YABUSAME, or Horseback archery, a warrior skill essential to the Samurai's victory in battle!

This special occasion will be marked by a sacred Shinto ceremony, followed by a parade of gorgeously costumed riders and their horses!

Also known as "Takadanobaba Yabusame", this is a chance to watch yabusame, the impressive Japanese martial art of horse-mounted archery (it’s quite difficult to hit a target from a moving horse) in Toyama Park.

After the Yabusame, we will embark on an engaging art and history walk through the area, visiting samurai estates, mysterious gardens and mossy shrines, where foxes rule!

Some of the remarkable places we may visit:

• Aizu Museum 會津八一記念博物館
• Ōkuma Garden 大隈庭園
• Sui Shrine 水神社
• Higo-Hosokawa Garden 肥後細川庭園
• Kansen-en Park 新宿区立甘泉園公園
• Mizuinari Shrine 水稲荷神社

As we stroll, you can also enjoy a language exchange to practice your English or Japanese skills, since about half of our members are Japanese!

This event is perfect for expats, international and exchange students, and anyone interested in Japanese culture and art.

Whether you're a fan of outdoor adventures, social networking, or simply enjoy picnics and making new friends, this day in Waseda promises to be a memorable experience that combines art, nature, and cultural exploration.

Don't miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Japanese art, surrounded by like-minded individuals in a beautiful setting.

THIS WILL BE FUN, SO LET'S GO!

~ KERRY 😎