Towada, a picturesque city located at the foot of the Hakkoda Mountains in Aomori Prefecture, is globally recognized for its breathtaking natural beauty, including the serene Oirase Gorge and the stunning Lake Towada. However, in recent years, Towada has undergone an artistic renaissance, adding a cultural layer to its appeal and transforming its downtown area into an attraction of its own.
Historically, Towada’s economy was built around horse breeding and trading, particularly for the Imperial Army. While cavalry units have since become a thing of the past, the city’s love for horses has endured through time. This equestrian passion is evident not just in the city’s history but also in its contemporary culture, from local art to annual events.
One of the most notable traditions tied to Towada’s equestrian legacy is the sport of yabusame, a form of horseback archery. Initially a battlefield practice, yabusame evolved into a Shinto ritual performed by male riders. However, in recent years, it has transitioned into a popular sport, with Towada’s horseback riding community playing a key role in its growth. The Sakura Yabusame tournament, held each April in Towada Central Park, features female riders dressed in traditional attire, competing under blooming cherry blossoms to strike three targets in quick succession. In mid-October, Towada hosts the World Yabusame Championships during the peak of autumn foliage, adding a vibrant golden backdrop to the thrilling competition.
In addition to its events, Towada’s passion for horses is embedded in the very fabric of the city. The main street, Kanchogai-dori, also known as “komakaido” or horse highway, is lined with bronze horse statues, horseshoes embedded in the pavement, and the iconic “Flower Horse” sculpture standing proudly in front of the Towada Art Center. With over 100 cherry and pine trees, Kanchogai-dori is not only a historical tribute to the city’s equestrian roots but also a popular hanami (cherry blossom viewing) spot in the spring.
Towada’s blend of natural beauty, artistic evolution, and deep-rooted equestrian heritage makes it a unique and enchanting destination, offering a glimpse into a city where nature, tradition, and art come together in perfect harmony.
