Horse Riding Tips & Trivia

Horses are familiar animals to Japanese people, appearing in folktales and fairy tales. They are also featured in characters, and many of you might think of characters with horses or horses from old stories when asked. Horses are not only familiar in Japan but are also prominent in overseas folklore and mythology. So, what kinds … Read more

When you think of horses, the image of them flowing and galloping gracefully is quite striking, isn’t it? Many enthusiasts look forward to how they will braid their manes for competitions. In this article, we explore the important roles that horse manes actually play! The Role of the Sensory Hairs That Protect Critical Areas Horse … Read more

Horse riding is a year-round sport, but summer brings the problem of insects. When bugs swarm, even humans struggle to keep them away, losing focus. Horses experience the same issue, often reacting with big head movements, tail flicks, or leg lifts when trying to fend off insects, which can surprise riders.Do you know some simple … Read more

The bit, a vital piece of tack that conveys commands from rider to horse, often raises questions. Is it uncomfortable or even painful for the horse? In this article, we explore different types of bits, their considerations, and how to use them gently to ensure your horse’s comfort. Are There Tasty Bits? Exploring Innovative Horse … Read more

It is challenging for living beings to go through life without injuries or illnesses. There are various diseases that can affect horses. How many types of horse-related illnesses do you know? Today, we focus on a condition that requires attention during the rainy season and hot weather—’Keikun’ (connective tissue dermatitis). What Is Horse Skin Disease … Read more

Are you familiar with the Clydesdale horse, classified as a heavy breed? True to its classification, it is a large horse both in height and weight. The white markings on its face, the white patches on its four legs, and the abundant feathering around the hocks give it an air of stability and elegance.Interestingly, Clydesdales … Read more

When your beloved horse shows signs of illness, can you notice it quickly? Just like humans, when we have a fever and feel unwell, it’s tough to stand. Few people can tell if a horse’s body temperature is elevated just by touching it. Measuring a horse’s temperature isn’t something that anyone learning horseback riding can … Read more

Everywhere horses are seen, there are farms, but which is the correct pronunciation: ‘makiba’ or ‘bokujo’? In this article, we’ll explore the readings and meanings of various horse-related kanji. Even if you struggled with kanji in school, connecting them with something you love can make learning surprisingly enjoyable! Which is the Correct Pronunciation? First, let’s … Read more

In period dramas, you may have heard of urgent messages being delivered by ‘sending a courier on a fast horse.’ So, what exactly was a fast horse (hayouma / hayama)? In this article, we explore interesting facts about these horses and how fast they could really go! What Were the Breeds of Fast Horses? In … Read more

Each year, 7,000 Thoroughbreds are born with the aim of becoming racehorses, and around 5,000 retire to start their second lives. Some horses are born with health issues or injuries that lead to early retirement at ages 3 or 4. While the average lifespan of a Thoroughbred is about 25 years, many retired racehorses find … Read more