Archery event in Nikko replicates Japan's ancient history
The late 12th-century warrior Nasu no Yoichi, who belonged to the Minamoto clan, is said to have shot an arrow at a fan placed on a small boat at sea in a battle with the rival Heike clan.
The event is based on a legend that the warrior prayed to a shrine in what is now Nikko for success in hitting the target.
More than 1,800 archers from across the country took part in the annual event held on the shore of Lake Chuzenji on Monday.
After a Shinto priest and others opened the event with a demonstration, participants took turns shooting arrows at targets on boats on the lake about 30 meters from shore.
Spectators applauded each time an arrow hit the target.
A junior high school student from a nearby city said it was a fun to shoot an arrow in such a beautiful setting. He said it was difficult because he had to aim upward more than usual.
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