Archery practice

Under a cherry tree in full bloom, a mounted noble from the office of the Imperial Guard is practicing an archer's special sport (yabusame), trying to shoot at a moving target held by his running servant.

Yabusame is a form of religious exercise or sport performed in a shrine precinct by mounted warriors who shoot at three or more targets while riding at a full gallop. The excitement and spectacle of yabusame come from the riders' elegant costumes, their speed, and their accurate shooting.