Japan is a country that is known for its dedication to culture and its appreciation of nature. It is also a country that has an affinity for horses – both wild and domesticated. This article will explore the types of horses found in Japan and the current population of horses in the country at large.
Types of Horses
Wild Horses
Wild horses are found throughout the Japanese island of Hokkaido. These horses are known as ‘Yamato-Uma’ and are believed to be the descendants of horses brought over from the mainland during the Yayoi period (300 BCE-300CE). The Yamato-Uma are small and stocky, with a wide forehead, thick mane and a short, thick neck. They are most commonly a dark bay colour, but can also be black, grey or chestnut. The wild horses of Japan are a protected species and the population is estimated to be around 2,500.
Domesticated Horses
There are several different types of domesticated horses found in Japan. These include the Japanese horse, developed in the early 20th century, which is a small horse used mainly for leisure riding; the Japanese Draft horse, which is a hardy breed developed for farm work; and the Japanese Thoroughbred, which is a light, fast breed used mainly for racing. In addition, there are also a number of foreign breeds found in Japan, including the Arabian, Quarter Horse and American Saddlebred.
Current Horse Population in Japan
Estimates of the current horse population in Japan vary, but it is thought that the total population is around 3.2 million. This number includes both wild and domesticated horses, and encompasses a variety of breeds. The majority of horses are found in rural areas, with the highest concentration found in the northern region of Hokkaido.
Factors Affecting the Horse Population
Development
One of the major factors that has had an impact on the horse population in Japan is the rapid development of the country. The increasing urbanisation of Japan has resulted in a decrease in available land for grazing, which in turn has led to a decrease in the number of horses.
Climate Change
Climate change is another factor that has had an impact on the horse population in Japan. The increasing temperatures and variability in weather patterns have resulted in a decrease in available grazing land and water sources, which has had a negative effect on the horse population.
Horse Racing
Horse racing is a popular sport in Japan and is a big business. Horses are bred specifically for racing and are often taken from their homes and put into racing stables. This has had a direct impact on the horse population, as many horses are taken away from their families and homes and put into unnatural situations.
Horse Slaughter
Horse slaughter is another factor that has had an impact on the horse population in Japan. Horses are often slaughtered for their meat and hides, which is a practice that has become increasingly common in recent years. This has had a negative effect on the horse population, as many horses are killed for their meat and hides rather than being kept as companions or for work.
Horse Welfare
Horse welfare is a major concern in Japan and is one of the main factors that has had an impact on the horse population. The Japanese government has implemented a number of laws and regulations to ensure that horses are treated humanely and that their welfare is taken into consideration. This has resulted in an overall improvement in the welfare of horses in Japan.
Conclusion
There are an estimated 3.2 million horses in Japan, including both wild and domesticated breeds. The majority of horses are found in rural areas, with the highest concentration found in the northern region of Hokkaido. Development, climate change, horse racing and horse slaughter are all factors that have had an effect on the horse population in Japan. Horse welfare is also a major concern in the country and the government has implemented a number of laws and regulations to ensure that horses are treated humanely and their welfare is taken into consideration.