The short answer: kasumi, hoshi, and the makiwara
Kyudo uses several targets for different purposes. The essentials:
- The most common close-range (kinteki) targets are the kasumi-mato and the hoshi-mato — usually the same size, differing only in pattern.
- The standard diameter is shaku-ni-sun (about 36 cm), the reference size for close-range shooting.
- The makiwara is not a target but a close-range practice butt for checking form, shot with dedicated makiwara arrows.
- Targets are consumables — the target paper tears and is replaced regularly.
Main target types
Kasumi-mato
Three concentric black rings on a white ground, with a white centre (naka-shiro). The most widely used close-range target, seen in gradings and most competitions; the rings make it easy to read where a stray arrow landed. Under the All Nippon Kyudo Federation’s competition rules (Article 26), the close-range kasumi-mato is 36 cm across, divided from the centre into a white centre (radius 3.6 cm), black ring 1 (3.6 cm wide), white ring 2 (3.0 cm), black ring 2 (1.5 cm), white ring 3 (3.0 cm) and black ring 3 (3.3 cm).
Hoshi-mato
A simple black dot (the “star”) on a white ground. With no rings, the centre stands out, which some find easier to aim at; used in some competitions and record meets.
Target size
The standard close-range diameter is shaku-ni-sun (about 36 cm), the basis for gradings and most close-range events. Smaller targets (for precision practice) and larger ones (for beginners) also exist. Long-range shooting (enteki) uses different sizes and distances.
What the makiwara is for
The makiwara is a butt of tightly bound straw, shot from a few paces to settle form and the release — the aim is form, not hitting. It is shot with dedicated makiwara arrows, made for close range. Beginners usually start on the makiwara to build the basic movements before moving to the target, and even ranked archers use it to review their shot.
Targets are consumables
Target paper tears with every hit, so treat targets as consumables to be replaced regularly. Busy dojo keep a stock of target paper; target pins and frames are gathered as needed. What target gear you use depends on the dojo.
Setting up: the azuchi
Targets stand before the azuchi, a bank of earth that stops the arrows, fixed with a target pin and frame. Because a safe, wide range is hard to arrange at home, target practice is generally done at the dojo. Follow your instructor on setup — this is a safety matter, not one for personal judgement.
FAQ
Should I use a kasumi or a hoshi target?
It depends on your dojo, school, or competition rules. Kasumi is widely used in close range, but hoshi is specified in some settings — follow your dojo, and ask your instructor if unsure.
What size is a kyudo target?
The close-range standard is shaku-ni-sun (about 36 cm). Smaller, larger, and long-range targets also exist, used by practice stage and setting.
What’s the difference between the makiwara and a target?
A target is aimed at from a distance; the makiwara is a close-range butt for checking form, shot with dedicated makiwara arrows.