Journeys in Japan

Living with Horses - Hidaka (4x26)

Air date: Aug 13, 2013

The Hidaka area on the southwestern coast of Hokkaido is famous for its racehorses. This is where many of the most famous Japanese racehorses were born, raised and trained. On this edition of Journeys in Japan, Daniela Shiga travels to Hidaka to see the way people live alongside horses. Even though she has loved horses and riding all her life, this is the first experience for her to see and touch a racehorse close-up. She visits a large ranch where the racehorses are allowed to wander freely. Owner Shigeyuki Okada says this is the secret to raising horses that are strong and healthy. Next Daniela gets to look behind the scenes at a stable. She meets a talented young jockey who works hard every day to improve his understanding of the horses he rides, and build up a relationship with them. She also enjoys the warm hospitality offered at a local guesthouse. Through her journey, she gets to see the important role that horses play in the lives of people in this area.