This event has its roots over a thousand years ago, started as a military exercise by Taira no Kojiro Masakado, founder of the Soma clan. Now, more than 500 mounted horsemen in full traditional samurai armour take part, bringing the Sengoku period to life in the modern day.

Equine traditions in Japan date back to the Kofun era. Yokohama’s Negishi racecourse, completed in 1866, marked the beginning of a long and storied history that continues to this day. Intrigued by this story? Then read on.