The annual "Toshiya," or a Japanese archery event, where people who turn twenty years old during this year pledge to improve their skills and grow up, was held on January 17 at Sanjusangen-do Hall in Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto. Under a clear winter sky, young people dressed in "Furisode," or formal kimono with long sleeves, vigorously drew their bows.

Toshiya originates from an historical event in the Edo Period, where samurai warriors competed to show their skills under the eaves of Sanjusangen-do Hall, and is organized by the Kyoto Prefecture Archery Federation and others. Now in its 60th year, approximately 2,000 people from around the country participated.

Many women in attired in gorgeous "Furisode" kimono and men dressed in black-and-white "Hakama" robes gathered at the shooting range of the hall and aimed at the targets set 60 meters away. Participants renewed their resolve to come of age, and with sharp-eyes, shot the arrows from their bows at the targets.

A sophomore at Doshisha University said, "I've dreamed of participating in 'Toshiya' since I was a child. I would like to grow up to become a respected person."