November 23, 2025 (3d ago)
Momote-Shiki (百手式), meaning "hundred hands" or "hundred arrows," is a traditional Shinto archery ritual deeply rooted in Japanese culture. It involves a group of archers, typically ten at a time, shooting a total of one hundred arrows at a central target. This ceremonial act is performed to pray for good fortune, protection from evil spirits, and bountiful harvests. The ritual emphasizes spiritual balance and purity rather than just the accuracy of the shot, symbolizing harmony between spirit and bow.
Momote-Shiki ceremonies are carried out on special occasions such as Seijin-no-Hi (Coming of Age Day) and during seasonal festivals to mark significant times of the year. The ritual includes a distinctive start with a kabura-ya, a whistling arrow, which is believed to ward off evil spirits in all directions.
Meiji Shrine, Tokyo
Held twice yearly at Meiji Shrine, notably in January for Coming of Age Day and in November for autumn festivals, this is a key location where the tradition is preserved. Archers wearing traditional samurai-style kimono perform the ritual, immersing visitors in authentic historical ambiance.
Ōmoto Shrine, Miyajima Island (Hiroshima Prefecture)
The Momotesai Festival at Ōmoto Shrine involves a ceremonial archery ritual held annually on January 20. The event includes prayers, ceremonial shootings toward various symbolic targets, and blessings. Visitors can also participate in a lottery to receive ritual arrows as souvenirs. The festival combines spiritual significance with interactive cultural experiences.
This ritual represents spiritual cleansing and the protection of communities by driving away evil spirits. Archery in this context is a sacred act linked to Shinto beliefs, reflecting discipline, focus, and reverence for divine forces that govern the land and heavens.