On Seijin-no-Hi (Coming of Age Day) in early January in Japan, an archery ritual known as Momote Shiki is held at Meiji Shrine in Tokyo for all those turning 20 for that year. 10 Archers at a time shoot two arrows at a central target. At Meiji Shrine in Tokyo, a Shinto Priest fires a whistling arrow signfying the start of an archery ritual to commemorate Coming of Age Day.
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Japanese Archery Ritual - Momote Shiki
Momote Shiki: Japanese Archery Ritual Centuries-old ritual held for the fortune of new adults Archers in old style kimono preparing to shoot n the archery ritual known as Momote Shiki Seijin-no-Hi or Coming of Age Day is celebrated all throughout Japan on the second Monday of January. Throughout the country, similar ceremonies and activities take place among those newly turned 20 such as the wearing of special kimono, going to shrines, attending speeches, and so on. At Meiji Shrine in Tokyo, a unique ceremony takes place that is often overlooked in favor of seeing the kimono-clad girls that populate the shrine on that day. Behind the main shrine complex an archery ritual known as Momote Shiki is performed for the good fortune of all those turning 20 and becoming new adults. Archers wearing a style of formal kimono that samurai once wore in olden times shoot two arrows a piece at a central target. Archers arriving at Meiji Shrine in Tokyo The Momote Shiki ceremony is conducted by the O...