What this is
Oyumi Hajime is a traditional New Year ceremonial archery ritual held in Nara, one of Japan's most historically significant cities and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The festival marks the first drawing of the bow in the new year, a practice rooted in ancient court traditions dating back to the Nara period (710–784 AD), when the city served as Japan's imperial capital. Ceremonial archery, known as kyudo, carries deep spiritual and ritual significance in Japanese culture, and the New Year performance is considered a purifying and auspicious act to welcome the coming year. Held in a city surrounded by ancient temples, shrines, and heritage sites, this event connects visitors directly to Japan's earliest recorded cultural traditions.
Who should go
This event is ideal for history enthusiasts, cultural travellers, and anyone seeking an authentic, unhurried glimpse into Japan's imperial past beyond the typical tourist circuit. The atmosphere is ceremonial and contemplative rather than festive and loud, making it well suited to those who appreciate ritual and tradition over spectacle. Families with older children curious about samurai-era culture and martial arts heritage will also find it rewarding. Arrive early on New Year's Day to secure a good viewing position, as the combination of the holiday and Nara's popularity means the area can become busy.
Good to know
This is a traditional outdoor ceremonial event in Nara on New Year's Day, so dress warmly — January in Nara is cold and you may be standing outside for an extended period. Nara's historic sites are walkable from both JR Nara Station and Kintetsu Nara Station, and the city centre is compact enough to explore on foot. New Year's Day is one of the busiest times of year in Nara, as many visitors combine shrine and temple visits with seasonal events, so expect crowds throughout the historic district. Confirm the exact venue and start time closer to the date via the official Nara tourism website or Japan Travel, as ceremonial event schedules can vary year to year.
This event was sourced and translated from Japanese by What's On Japan. Details may change — verify with the official source before attending.