甲矢はや

noun

first arrow (with left-curving feathers)

In Japanese archery (kyūdō), the first of two arrows shot in a ceremonial pair. The feathers curve to the left, causing a clockwise spin. Contrasts with 乙矢 (おとや), the second arrow with right-curving feathers.

See also: 乙矢

• 弓きゅう道どうの試し合あいでは、まず甲矢はやを放はなち、次つぎに乙おと矢やを放はなつ。

  In a kyūdō match, one first shoots the haya (first arrow), then the otoya (second arrow).

• 甲矢はやの羽はねは左ひだりに反そっている。

  The feathers of the haya curve to the left.