Chained ‘Horses’ to Storm Tado Taisha Shrine in Protest of Ageuma Shinji Cruelty

What:                 Chained PETA “horses” will descend on Tado Taisha Shrine as PETA supporters—dressed in prison‑style uniforms and bound in handcuffs and heavy chains—call for an end to the use of horses in the Ageuma Shinji ritual and urge that it be replaced with an animal‑free event. Horses are still forced to run up a steep slope amid chaotic, shouting crowds and, as highly sensitive animals, can easily become frightened and stressed in such environments.

The ritual came under intense criticism after a horse suffered a fracture during the 2023 event. Although the earthen wall has since been removed, horses continue to be used. PETA will also encourage the public to avoid festivals that exploit animals.

“Traditions should not be built on fear and suffering,” says PETA Asia campaigner Laila Imai. “Forcing horses into terrifying situations puts them at serious risk of injury, and PETA is calling for an animal‑free event that doesn’t rely on fear or harm.”

Where:               Tado Taisha Shrine, 1681 Tado, Tado-cho, Kuwana City, Mie

When:             Monday, May 4 1:00 p.m. sharp

Interviews will be available on-site and remotely.

PETA—whose motto reads, in part, that “animals are not ours to abuse in any way”—points out that Every Animal Is Someone. For more information, please visit PETAAsia.com or follow PETA Asia on X, Facebook, or Instagram.

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