歴史的背景
彦根城眺遠的大会の会場であるこの大手前保存用地は、彦根城内内曲輪にあたり、中野家・横地家・木俣家などといった重臣の屋敷が立ち並ぶ一角でした。また、保存用地の西北西約300ｍに位置する市立西中学校グラウンドは、寛政11年（1799）十一代当主井伊直中により藩校稽古館が創設（天保元年、弘道館と改称）、兵学・天文学・算学・弓術・剣術・柔術・薙刀などが教授され、中でも弓術は３面の道場を有し、武田流はじめ日置流や片岡流・吉田流などが行われており、家芸として藩士の弓術指南を務める家や、藩主家の弓術指南役を務める家など特別な職務を担う家が複数存在していました。
このような藩政時代の歴史に鑑み、彦根の魅力を内外に発信するとともに、弓道の文化を多くの方々にお伝えしたいと思います。

The Hikone Castle Long-Distance Kyudo Competition will be held at the Otemae grounds, located within the inner moats of Hikone Castle—an area once lined with the grand residences of high-ranking samurai.
Nearby is the site of the Kodokan, a prestigious feudal school established in 1799, where samurai once mastered various martial arts, including legendary styles of archery.
This event is unique, as the target distance will be 80 meters. This is much farther than most archery competitions which have 28 or 60 meter target distances. It’s a great opportunity to experience Japan’s legacy of fine archery while admiring the beautiful Hikone Castle, a national treasure. More than 300 archers from all over Japan will be demonstrating their archery skills in this competition. In addition, there will be a special competition for foreigners. A beginners workshop will also be open to the public.Hikone is renowned for its iconic castle and the profound tradition of Japanese archery (Kyudo).In light of this history from the feudal era, we hope to share the charm of Hikone both within Japan and abroad, while introducing the culture of Kyudo to a wide audience.