The Great Kanto Earthquake approaches 99 years on the first of September and already the city is planning events to mark the centennial throughout 2023. Through the many writings recorded by survivors of this natural disaster, the devastation and aftermath of this day left an indelible stamp on their memory. Particularly in Yokohama, where nearly 80% of the city was destroyed by the quake and ensuing fires, rebuilding the city quickly with an attention to safety became the priority of the local government. One new area that was a result of the earthquake is Yamashita Park–the site was selected as the disposal site for the rubble and was completed as Japan’s first seaside park in 1930.
Above Yamashita Park in the Yamate area, many foreigners’ large summer homes also collapsed, in particular, the area around Motomachi Park with its many pathways descending the hillside. Rebuilding this area gave birth to the Motomachi Park Archery Club in 1931 at the very bottom of the park. Sightseeing around the surrounding Western-style homes and the Foreigner’s General Cemetery dotting Yamate-dori, one might miss this archery club or even the Motomachi Pool (1930).
Originally built for a small group of archery specialists, the dojo (martial arts training hall) soon became one of the largest in the Kanto area. On my visit to the club I was greeted by the current director, Kazuo Kumakura, a fourth-dan (fourth degree, out of nine) archer. He recalls that although the club began with strong membership, soon after the war it was closed until 1953 during the occupation. Avoiding the fire-bombings of May 29, 1945, the first wooden structure survived until 1970, when it was replaced by the current administrative offices. Kumakura greets archery enthusiasts who are interested in learning this ancient martial art. Beginners may start by attending a preliminary course held either on Fridays or Saturdays, twice a month, for a total of ten lessons (¥5000 total). Usually beginners continue these preliminary lessons for several years before they embark on their own private lessons. Advanced archers who pursue lessons tend to buy their own equipment and hakama (robe).
Motomachi Park Archery Club is open everyday from 9:00 ~ 17:00 except on the third Monday of every month and holidays. Lessons are held in Japanese only.