Guida
Soma Nomaoi is a historic ritual held in the Soma Nakamura district and the northern part of the Hamadori region in Fukushima Prefecture. It is a sacred ritual associated with the three Soma shrines: Soma Nakamura Shrine, Soma Ota Shrine, and Soma Odaka Shrine. In 1952, it was designated as an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property of Japan. Often celebrated as one of the six great festivals of the Tohoku region, it serves as a precursor to the summer festivals of the area. The festival is characterized by diverse rituals that symbolize the culture of horses and samurai, including 'Nomagake' (horse chasing), 'Katchu Keiba' (armored horse racing) where warriors compete for flags, and the 'Ogyoretsu' (procession) that marches through the streets.
The origins of this ritual are said to date back to before the Kamakura period. It is believed to have begun when the ancestors of the Soma clan released wild horses in their territory to conduct military training by simulating enemy attacks. Although such military training was restricted after the establishment of the Kamakura Shogunate, the tradition was preserved under the guise of a 'sacred ritual.' During the Edo period, the festival became more formalized as an official event of the Soma clan. While it was traditionally held in late July, starting from 2024, the schedule was moved to the last week of May to avoid the extreme heat of summer, allowing visitors to enjoy the traditional samurai culture in more comfortable weather.
The greatest thrill of Soma Nomaoi is the dynamic interaction between horse and human. The 'Shinki Sodatsusen' (battle for the sacred flag), where warriors on horseback compete for a flag, and the high-speed 'Katchu Keiba' (armored horse racing) are incredibly powerful spectacles. Additionally, the 'Ogyoretsu' procession allows you to see beautifully decorated horses and warriors in historical costumes up close, evoking the atmosphere of the ancient samurai society. These events are not merely performances but sacred rituals passed down through generations.
To avoid the summer heat, the festival is now held on the Saturday, Sunday, and Monday of the last week of May. You can enjoy the ritual in the mild spring climate. Since the schedule is divided between days with a stronger focus on sacred rituals (24th/25th) and days with more festive elements, it is highly recommended to check the detailed schedule in advance. During daylight hours, the intricate details of the armor and the powerful movements of the horses are clearly visible, making for excellent photography opportunities.
As a spectator, the most important experience is feeling the 'Samurai Culture' with all your senses. You can immerse yourself in the atmosphere by listening to the sound of galloping horses, the clashing of armor, and the surrounding excitement. If you wish to watch from a specific spot, we recommend checking local information in advance to secure an optimal viewing position. Please note that because this is a sacred ritual, visitors are expected to act with respect and consideration for the participants.
The area where Soma Nomaoi takes place is dotted with historical sites, including the Soma Nakamura and Soma Ota Shrines. These shrines are central to the ritual and are essential spots for understanding the local history. There are many other historical sites around Soma City that allow you to connect more deeply with the region's culture alongside the festival.