(Photo: © K.P.V.B)

This year marks a special occasion — the 20th anniversary of cityhood for Ichiki -Kushikino!

The beach horse races first began 13 years after the end of World War II, when horses were still an essential part of transportation. What started as a fun diversion during cherry blossom season, organized by the cart horse union, has grown into a beloved local tradition.

At the event, you’ll see ponies and sturdy draft horses (used for farm work) racing along a 1.5 km stretch of sandy beach at Terushima Coast — often in charming and amusing ways!
The highlight of the day? The exciting thoroughbred races!

In the morning, there will be qualifying races featuring ponies, draft horses, half-bloods (a mix of speed and strength), and fast thoroughbreds. The final races take place in the afternoon.

There will also be plenty of local food and craft vendors — perfect for a stroll between races!