Bulls lock horns in central Japan for fighting tradition

Spectators flocked to a city in Niigata Prefecture on Sunday to see bulls lock horns in traditional Japanese bullfighting. The event is designated an Important Intangible Folk Cultural Property. The cities of Ojiya and Nagaoka in central Japan hold several matches every year during the season.

Ojiya held this year’s first event on Sunday involving 36 bulls. The matches have two bulls face off, locking horns and pressing against each other as their handlers shout encouragement. Every bout was brought to an end in a tie to prevent the animals from getting hurt. About 1,000 people turned out.  The city will hold a tournament every month through November.