Soma Nomaoi

See races, processions, and the samurai spirit at this ancient horse festival

The Soma Nomaoi is a traditional festival that has been celebrated for over a thousand years in the Soma District of Fukushima Prefecture, japan. It is a celebration of martial skill and horse riding, and it has also become a symbol of resilience and survival for the people of Soma.

The festival usually takes place on the last Saturday, Sunday, and Monday in July. It attracts thousands of visitors from all over Japan and even from abroad. The festival is known for its three main events: Ogyouretsu, Katchu Keiba, and Nomakake.

Ogyouretsu is a procession of horse riders in full samurai gear. It is a spectacular sight to see the riders dressed in traditional armor and carrying banners of various houses and clans. The procession takes place on the second day of the festival and attracts a large crowd of spectators.

Katchu Keiba is the main horse racing event of the festival. It takes place at noon on the second day and features the participants galloping around a 1,000-meter track. The riders ride without helmets, and banners stream behind them, creating a scene that seems straight out of a movie.

Nomakake is a horse-capturing ritual that takes place on the last day of the festival. Mounted horsemen chase horses into the shrine precincts, and young men who have received a Shinto blessing and dressed in white attire try to capture the horses barehanded. The first horse that is captured is then ceremoniously given as an offering to the Odaka Shrine.

The Soma Nomaoi festival has a long history that dates back to the time of the samurai. It began as military exercises organized by the founder of the Soma clan, Taira no Kojiro Masakado. Even today, a descendant of the Soma clan assumes the role of the supreme commander during the festival.

The festival has been designated as an Important National Intangible Folk Cultural Asset, recognizing its cultural and historical significance. It is a unique event that showcases the martial prowess and spirit of the people of Soma.

In addition to the main events, there are also various other activities and performances during the festival. Visitors can enjoy traditional music and dance performances, as well as food stalls selling local delicacies. There are also exhibitions and demonstrations of traditional crafts and skills.

Getting to the Soma Nomaoi festival is relatively easy. Minamisoma, the city where the festival takes place, can be reached by bus, train, or rental car. The easiest route is to take the Joban Line express train to Haranomachi Station and then take a special shuttle bus to Minamisoma City during the festival.

The festival is not just a celebration of martial skill and horse riding; it is also a demonstration of hope and spirit. The people of Soma have faced many challenges throughout history, including the devastating earthquake and tsunami in 2011. The Soma Nomaoi festival was held on a reduced scale that year but has since been revived and has become an important center of activity for the local community.

The festival is a testament to the resilience and determination of the people of Soma. It is a reminder of their samurai ancestors’ fighting spirit and their ability to overcome adversity. The festival serves as a source of inspiration and unity for the community, bringing people together to celebrate their heritage and culture.

In conclusion, the Soma Nomaoi festival is a unique and fascinating event that showcases the martial skill, horse riding, and samurai spirit of the people of Soma. It is a celebration of resilience and survival, and it has become an important center of activity for the local community. The festival attracts thousands of visitors each year and offers a glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural heritage. If you are planning a trip to Japan, make sure to include the Soma Nomaoi festival in your itinerary. You will not be disappointed.

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