【Part 16】How Can I Participate in the Soma Nomaoi?

The Soma Nomaoi is a historic festival of mounted warriors held annually in late July in the Soma region of Fukushima Prefecture. There are several ways to participate in this grand traditional event. You can join as a rider (mounted warrior), compete in the sacred flag contest, or get involved as staff or a volunteer.

1. How to Participate as a Mounted Warrior?

The greatest appeal of Soma Nomaoi is donning armor, mounting a horse, and charging forth in a battle reminiscent of the Warring States period. To participate as a mounted warrior, you must meet the following requirements.

🔹 Eligibility Requirements

Be a native or have ties to a region associated with Soma Nomaoi

Have horse riding experience and be able to ride safely

Possess the physical stamina to wear armor and participate for extended periods

Apply formally through the local Nomaoi Executive Committee

🔹 How to Participate

Confirm the recruitment of mounted warriors

The Nomaoi Executive Committees in each of the three Soma districts (Soma City, Minamisoma City, Futaba District, etc.) conduct recruitment annually.

Local residents and horse owners are often prioritized, but participation from outside the area may be possible in some cases.

Submit Application Documents and Undergo Screening

Submit application documents to the committee for screening regarding riding experience and connections.

Armor rental may be available, but participants are encouraged to prepare their own whenever possible.

Attend Pre-Event Practice

Practice horse handling and the procession ceremony flow beforehand to ensure safety on the day.

2. How to Participate in the Sacred Flag Contest?

The Sacred Flag Contest is the highlight of the Soma Nomaoi, a heroic battle where riders vie for the “sacred flag” dropped from the sky while mounted.

🔹 Participation Requirements

- Be registered as a mounted warrior

- Possess high riding skill and confidence in speed

- Receive a recommendation from your district

Due to the extreme danger involved, only a select few experienced mounted warriors can participate.

3. How to participate as staff or volunteer?

Even if you are not a mounted warrior, you can participate as staff or a volunteer supporting the Soma Nomaoi.

🔹 Example Roles

Supporting event operations (guidance, reception, security, etc.)

Horse care (assisting with horse guidance and care)

Photography/video recording (official photographer, social media manager, etc.)

Armor/costume management (assisting with dressing, repairs)

🔹 How to Participate

Check the official website of the Nomaoi Executive Committee or recruitment information from local governments

Register with local volunteer organizations

Attend preliminary briefings and meetings

4. How to Enjoy as a Spectator?

Even if participating as a rider is difficult, enjoying the Soma Nomaoi as a spectator is highly recommended.

🔹 Highlights

Departure Ceremony (procession of mounted warriors)

Armor Horse Race (race of mounted warriors)

Sacred Flag Contest (highlight flag-capturing battle)

Noma-kake (horse dedication ritual at the shrine)

🔹 Preparations

Reserve viewing seats (paid seats available)

Confirm Transportation Options (Check in advance due to traffic restrictions in the area)

Sun and Weather Protection (Bring hats and drinks)

Summary

There are four main ways to participate in the Soma Nomaoi:

Ride as a mounted warrior

Challenge the Sacred Flag Battle

Get involved as staff or a volunteer

Enjoy it as a spectator

Why not join this historic traditional event and experience its charm for yourself?