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Now on Display!
Uma no Kokoro is now open to Kentucky Horse Park Guests
Uma no Kokoro is an immersive, educational overview of the horse world in Japan. This exhibit explores horses’ spiritual and cultural role in Japan, their use on the battlefield, and the robust world of Japanese racing and horsemanship.
The horse has been woven into many aspects of Japanese society for centuries. Indigenous breeds, likely from Mongolia, roamed the country since at least the Jลmon Period, which began as early as 14,000 BCE.
The horse took an active role in everyday life in Japan, starting in the 4th century CE. Uma no Kokoro offers an in-depth look at the key role of horses from centuries ago to today. From traditional samurai armor to trophies from Japanโs most historic races, Uma no Kokoro will highlight some of the most important roles and accomplishments of the horse in Japan.
History
The essence of the horse has been woven into Japanese society for centuries. The horse took an active role in everyday life, incorporated into agriculture, military, and spirituality. Farmers first harnessed the horse in the late 4th century CE for farming, riding, and transportation.
Soma Nomaoi
Learn about a samurai festival that takes place every year in Minamisoma. Participants complete rituals and competitions including a horse race and a sacred flag capture. The Soma Nomaoi Festival is designated as an Important National Intangible Folk Cultural Asset.
Culture
The horse is an integral part of Japanese spirituality and culture. Horses are mentioned in the oldest Japanese texts, and are found in book illustrations and stories, decorating clay vessels, and even in inlay designs on swords. They also play an important part of festivals, sports, and religious functions.
Racing History
Horse racing has a long history in Japan, originating in the 6th century CE. Western-style racing was introduced at Yokohama in 1862 and rapidly became popular.
Modern Racing
Today, Japan is a major force in international racing. The country attracts some of the worldโs best horses to their races and is successful racing Japanese horses all over the globe. Learn about racehorse legends such as Sunday Silence, Deep Impact, Kitasan Black, Orfevre, Sodashi, and Equinox.
Military
The horse was influential to warriors. The mounted samurai were renowned for their archery skills, but could fight on horseback with many different weapons.
Umamusume: Pretty Derby
Umamusume: Pretty Derby is a highly successful video game and anime franchise created by Cygames, Inc. The characters carry the names of beings from another world, and their stories match the legacies of those whose names they share.
Current Uma no Kokoro Sponsors
Thanks to the following sponsors for their generous support!
For more information about sponsorships at the Kentucky Horse Park, please email Karla DiNardo.
Advertisements for services or products that appear on the Kentucky Horse Parkโs website were approved by the Office of Procurement Services at the Finance and Administration Cabinet through the sponsorship process, established under KRS 45A.097, are not endorsements of these businesses by KHP as provided in KRS 45A.097(4)(h), and are not to be considered lobbying activities as provided in KRS 45A.097(4)(i).