Japan is one of the world’s most powerful countries. It went from being a quaint and unknown rice field with feudal despots to a significant competitor amongst imperialist countries, a military challenge to the world order, and an economic superpower. Japan has among the world’s oldest heritage traditions, and has its own distinctive sports.
Polo has been played in China, Korea, and Japan for centuries. For over 1500 years, horses have contributed to Japanese life in many ways, via battle, peace, and ceremonial ways.
The Japanese honor horses as gods. They believe the “divine spirit” arrived on horseback. Research suggests that the horse was initially harnessed in Japan around the Kofun period in the late 4th century. During the same period, the earliest signs of horse riding can be seen.
The Japanese tradition of Kurabeuma, or match race, is celebrated at the Kamigamo Shrine in Kyoto every spring. In the historical race, two warriors, one draped in red, the other in black, participate. Japan took an integrated strategy to thoroughbred breeding as well as racing since early on. In 1954, the Japan Racing Association was formed. In 1981, the Japan Cup, one of the finest horse races in the world, was established. It attracts thoroughbreds from all across the globe, to Tokyo’s Fuchu Racecourse.
Dakyu is the title attributed to ancient Japanese polo. It originated in Central Asia and spread to Europe, eventually evolving into modern-day polo.
