The Archery Hall of a Thousand Kannon

Why did samurai practise archery alongside Sanjūsangendō, Kyoto’s Buddhist hall dedicated to Kannon? Its extraordinary wooden architecture became the setting for Tōshiya, a challenge requiring precision and endurance. An Edo-period print captures the hall as both sacred space and public spectacle. Explore how religious history and martial skill came together in one remarkable Kyoto tradition.