In celebration of the Year of the Horse: A cultural and historical journey tracing the deep relationship between the Japanese and horses
In celebration of the Year of the Horse: A cultural and historical journey tracing the deep relationship between the Japanese people and horses
WABISUKE's horse-patterned clasp is more than just a cute accessory. It quietly embodies the long history and culture that has been woven between the Japanese people and horses. This year is the year of the horse (Uma) in the Chinese zodiac. In this year when horse-motif items are gaining attention, let's take a fresh look at the relationship between the Japanese people and horses.
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The introduction of horses and changes in ancient Japan
Horses first appeared in the Japanese archipelago between the end of the Yayoi period and the beginning of the Kofun period. Horses and harnesses were imported via the Korean Peninsula and were initially used for military purposes. The appearance of horses brought about a revolution in warfare and transportation methods, marking an important turning point that led to the birth of the samurai.
Horse-shaped haniwa clay figures and horse equipment have been excavated from ancient tombs, showing that horses were symbols of the ruling class. Horses were not just animals, but also symbols of power and dignity.
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Native horses and local culture
There were once 14 breeds of native horses in Japan. Each had its own unique characteristics and was used for farming, transportation, festivals, etc., such as the "Dosanko" of Hokkaido, the "Kisouma" of Nagano, and the "Misakiuma" of Kagoshima.
Although the native horses are not as glamorous as thoroughbreds, they can tolerate rough food, have gentle and friendly dispositions, and have built deep bonds with the local people. In particular, in mountainous areas, they were reliable vehicles that could carry loads, regardless of the steep terrain.
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Horses and Festivals: Horses in Faith and Celebration
Horses have also been treated as sacred beings. They are sometimes offered as sacred horses at shrines, and they have played a role in connecting people with the gods through horses.
Representative festivals include the Hachinohe Sansha Festival in Aomori and the Soma Nomaoi in Fukushima. At these festivals, horses play a central role, and you can see mounted warriors dressed in samurai attire parading through the town. Horses are living cultural assets that convey the memory of history to the present.
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The beauty and healing power of horses
The appeal of horses is not just their strength. Their large eyes, soft noses, and supple legs...the sight of a horse has a mysterious power to soothe the hearts of those who see them. In modern times, horse riding therapy has come to be used to treat both the mind and body.
Horses are also sensitive to human emotions, and building a relationship of trust can lead to surprisingly rich communication. Interacting with horses is also an opportunity to reaffirm our connection with nature and with people.
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The present and future of horse culture
With modernization, the role of horses has been replaced by machines, and the number of native horses has decreased. However, in recent years, horse culture has been reevaluated, and conservation efforts and use as a tourist resource are expanding.
As part of forest conservation efforts, sustainable initiatives that utilize the power of horses are also beginning, such as the use of horses to remove bamboo grass.Horses are not just a legacy of the past, but also partners in opening up the future.
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The thoughts behind the horse-patterned purse
WABISUKE's horse-patterned purse quietly speaks to our relationship with horses. The pin-shaped purse is an item that brings a little celebration into everyday life. The horse silhouette embodies strength and gentleness, as well as memories of history and culture.
This year's zodiac sign is the horse, which symbolizes progress and leaps forward. I hope to walk with the grace, strength, and elegance of a horse.
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