Guide
Toshiya is a traditional archery event where masters and titled practitioners shoot arrows at targets (Ooki) at a range set up on the west side of Sanjusangen-do (Rengeo-in Hondo) in Kyoto. Today, it is widely known as the "Ooki Taikai," held on the Sunday closest to the third Sunday of January. A major highlight is seeing young men and women celebrating their 20th birthdays by showcasing their archery skills while dressed in exquisite traditional attire, such as Furisode (long-sleeved kimono) or Hakama. The sight of these colorful garments against the winter scenery has become a beloved seasonal tradition in Kyoto. This event carries the weight of history, tracing back to the Edo period when various domains competed to set records in martial prowess.
While several legends exist regarding the origins of Toshiya, one legend dates back to the late Heian period (around 1156), when a figure from Kumano reportedly shot an arrow through the eaves of Sanjusangen-do. During the Edo period, the practice of "Oya Kazu" (counting large numbers of arrows) became a prestigious competition between different domains. The rivalry between the Kiyonosu and Kishu domains was a major social event of the time. Historical records note that Wasa Noritō of the Kishu domain achieved a remarkable record of 8,133 successful shots out of 13,053, a feat that remains legendary. Thus, Toshiya is more than just a sport; it is a ritualized display of samurai spirit and regional prestige.
The most thrilling aspect is the sheer power of the arrows being released simultaneously toward targets set 60 meters away. During the preliminary rounds, the tension is palpable as 12 archers may fire at once toward four targets. In the final rounds, the difficulty increases as the target size shrinks (from 1 meter to 79 cm, or 79 cm to 50 cm), testing the highest levels of precision. The sight of participants in formal kimono or martial arts attire embodies the aesthetic of traditional Japanese beauty.
The tournament typically takes place on the Sunday closest to the third Sunday of January. This period often coincides with the "Yanagi no Okaji" ceremony at Sanjusangen-do, adding a spiritual atmosphere to the New Year. Because Kyoto winters can be quite cold, heavy winter clothing is essential for outdoor viewing. While the event usually occurs during daylight hours, schedules may shift based on weather or progress, so checking local updates is recommended.
While spectators cannot participate in the archery themselves, you can observe these master-level martial arts skills up close against the magnificent Sanjusangen-do temple. This visit also offers a chance to connect with Japanese spiritual culture through the "Yanagi no Okaji" prayer for health and longevity. The cultural depth of the season is further enhanced by the presence of traditional kimono and the seasonal atmosphere of the surrounding area.
The event takes place on the west side of the National Treasure, Sanjusangen-do. The temple itself, stretching approximately 121.7 meters in length, is a massive and significant historical landmark. The surrounding area features many other temples and traditional streets, making it an excellent base for winter sightseeing in Kyoto.
As this is an outdoor event in winter, please bring heavy coats, gloves, and heat packs (Kairo) to stay warm. Sturdy, non-slip shoes are recommended. Please maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor as you are within temple grounds. While many nearby facilities and transport services accept credit cards and IC cards, it is wise to carry some cash for smaller local shops. While English support is available at major nearby tourist sites, please note that detailed technical explanations of the archery competition are primarily conducted in Japanese.