Hideharu Tamura

Jun 30, 2023 | bbc.co.uk | Sakiko Shiraishi |Hideharu Tamura |Vibeke Venema

Image source, Kuwana CityBy Sakiko Shiraishi, Hideharu Tamura in Tokyo & Vibeke Venema in LondonBBC NewsA horse's death and allegations of animal cruelty sparked a national outcry against a famous Shinto festival in a Japanese mountain town. The authorities have now promised reforms - but can this 680-year-old event change enough to secure its future? The crowds cheer as a young rider, wearing the costume of an ancient Japanese warrior, rides his horse fast up a steep hill.