Ritual for Aoi festival in Kyoto

Ritual for Aoi festival in Kyoto

A woman clad in a 12-layer traditional Japanese kimono, having been chosen to play this year's Saio-dai heroine during the upcoming annual Aoi Festival in Kyoto, purifies herself at Shimogamo Shrine in the western Japan city on May 4, 2026.

Ritual for Aoi festival in Kyoto

Ritual for Aoi festival in Kyoto

A woman clad in a 12-layer traditional Japanese kimono, having been chosen to play this year's Saio-dai heroine during the upcoming annual Aoi Festival in Kyoto, purifies herself at Shimogamo Shrine in the western Japan city on May 4, 2026.

Hakata Dontaku festival

Hakata Dontaku festival

The two-day Hakata Dontaku festival begins in Fukuoka on May 3, 2026, with people clad in colorful costumes taking part in its main parade in the southwestern Japan city.

Hakata Dontaku festival

Hakata Dontaku festival

The two-day Hakata Dontaku festival begins in Fukuoka on May 3, 2026, with people clad in colorful costumes taking part in its main parade in the southwestern Japan city.

Milan Cortina Olympics: Figure skating

Milan Cortina Olympics: Figure skating

Silver medalist Yuma Kagiyama (R) and bronze medalist Shun Sato, both clad in the Japan national flag, acknowledge the crowd after the medal ceremony for the men's figure skating event at the Milan Cortina Olympics at Milano Ice Skating Arena in Milan on Feb. 13, 2026.

Milan Cortina Olympics: Figure skating

Milan Cortina Olympics: Figure skating

Silver medalist Yuma Kagiyama (top) and bronze medalist Shun Sato, both clad in the Japan national flag, hug after the medal ceremony for the men's figure skating event at the Milan Cortina Olympics at Milano Ice Skating Arena in Milan on Feb. 13, 2026.

Milan Cortina Olympics: Figure skating

Milan Cortina Olympics: Figure skating

Silver medalist Yuma Kagiyama (R) and bronze medalist Shun Sato, both clad in the Japan national flag, hug after the medal ceremony for the men's figure skating event at the Milan Cortina Olympics at Milano Ice Skating Arena in Milan on Feb. 13, 2026.

Coming-of-Age ceremony for hula dancers

Coming-of-Age ceremony for hula dancers

Hula dancers clad in kimono perform during their Coming-of-Age ceremony at Spa Resort Hawaiians in Iwaki in Fukushima Prefecture, northeastern Japan, on Jan. 10, 2026.

Coming-of-Age ceremony for hula dancers

Coming-of-Age ceremony for hula dancers

Hula dancers clad in kimono perform during their Coming-of-Age ceremony at Spa Resort Hawaiians in Iwaki in Fukushima Prefecture, northeastern Japan, on Jan. 10, 2026.

Coming-of-Age ceremony for hula dancers

Coming-of-Age ceremony for hula dancers

Hula dancers clad in kimono perform during their Coming-of-Age ceremony at Spa Resort Hawaiians in Iwaki in Fukushima Prefecture, northeastern Japan, on Jan. 10, 2026.

Coming-of-Age ceremony for hula dancers

Coming-of-Age ceremony for hula dancers

Hula dancers clad in kimono perform during their Coming-of-Age ceremony at Spa Resort Hawaiians in Iwaki in Fukushima Prefecture, northeastern Japan, on Jan. 10, 2026.

Ancient court football at Kyoto shrine

Ancient court football at Kyoto shrine

People clad in traditional attire play "kemari," a football game played by nobles in Japan's Heian period (794-1185), at Shimogamo shrine in Kyoto on Jan. 4, 2026.

Ancient court football at Kyoto shrine

Ancient court football at Kyoto shrine

People clad in traditional attire play "kemari," a football game played by nobles in Japan's Heian period (794-1185), at Shimogamo shrine in Kyoto on Jan. 4, 2026.

Ancient court football at Kyoto shrine

Ancient court football at Kyoto shrine

People clad in traditional attire play "kemari," a football game played by nobles in Japan's Heian period (794-1185), at Shimogamo shrine in Kyoto on Jan. 4, 2026.

Ancient court football at Kyoto shrine

Ancient court football at Kyoto shrine

People clad in traditional attire play "kemari," a football game played by nobles in Japan's Heian period (794-1185), at Shimogamo shrine in Kyoto on Jan. 4, 2026.

Ancient court football at Kyoto shrine

Ancient court football at Kyoto shrine

People clad in traditional attire play "kemari," a football game played by nobles in Japan's Heian period (794-1185), at Shimogamo shrine in Kyoto on Jan. 4, 2026.

Ancient court football at Kyoto shrine

Ancient court football at Kyoto shrine

People clad in traditional attire play "kemari," a football game played by nobles in Japan's Heian period (794-1185), at Shimogamo shrine in Kyoto on Jan. 4, 2026.

Ancient court football at Kyoto shrine

Ancient court football at Kyoto shrine

People clad in traditional attire play "kemari," a football game played by nobles in Japan's Heian period (794-1185), at Shimogamo shrine in Kyoto on Jan. 4, 2026.

Ancient court football at Kyoto shrine

Ancient court football at Kyoto shrine

People clad in traditional attire play "kemari," a football game played by nobles in Japan's Heian period (794-1185), at Shimogamo shrine in Kyoto on Jan. 4, 2026.

Luma Foundation - Arles

Luma Foundation - Arles

An outside view of the twisting tower clad in reflective aluminium tiles, designed by US architect Frank Gehry, and housing Luma Foundation In Arles, France on July 24, 2020. The Luma Foundation was established by Maja Hoffman in Switzerland in 2004. Luma focuses on the direct relationships between art, culture, human rights, environmental topics, education and research. Photo by Patrick Aventurier/ABACAPRESS.COM

Luma Foundation - Arles

Luma Foundation - Arles

An outside view of the twisting tower clad in reflective aluminium tiles, designed by US architect Frank Gehry, and housing Luma Foundation In Arles, France on July 24, 2020. The Luma Foundation was established by Maja Hoffman in Switzerland in 2004. Luma focuses on the direct relationships between art, culture, human rights, environmental topics, education and research. Photo by Patrick Aventurier/ABACAPRESS.COM

Luma Tower - Arles

Luma Tower - Arles

The twisting Luma tower clad in reflective aluminium tiles, designed by US architect Frank Gehry, and housing Luma art Foundation In Arles, France on July 6, 2021. Photo by Patrick Aventurier/ABACAPRESS.COM

Hong Kong fire

Hong Kong fire

Search team members clad in protective gear gather at the site of a massive fire at a high-rise residential complex in the Tai Po district of Hong Kong on Nov. 29, 2025.

Hong Kong fire

Hong Kong fire

Search team members clad in protective gear head to the site of a massive fire at a high-rise residential complex in the Tai Po district of Hong Kong on Nov. 29, 2025.

Kazakh Eagle Hunters Preserve Ancient Tradition - Mongolia

Kazakh Eagle Hunters Preserve Ancient Tradition - Mongolia

Kazakh eagle hunters in the Altai Mountains of western Mongolia pose with their trained golden eagles during a photo session on October 26, 2023. Clad in traditional fur garments and perched on horseback, the hunters embody a centuries-old nomadic tradition known as “berkutchi,” where raptors are used to hunt foxes and hares in the harsh mountain landscape. This photo series documents both the daily life and ceremonial moments of the hunters, capturing their deep bond with their eagles and the unique skills passed down through generations. Against the backdrop of the rugged steppe and snow-dusted peaks, the images reflect a culture rooted in survival, identity, and pride. As modern influences increasingly reshape the region, these photographs preserve a way of life that is fast disappearing but still resonates as a symbol of resilience and cultural heritage among the Kazakh minority in Mongolia. Photo by Laurin Strele/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Kazakh Eagle Hunters Preserve Ancient Tradition - Mongolia

Kazakh Eagle Hunters Preserve Ancient Tradition - Mongolia

Kazakh eagle hunters in the Altai Mountains of western Mongolia pose with their trained golden eagles during a photo session on October 25, 2023. Clad in traditional fur garments and perched on horseback, the hunters embody a centuries-old nomadic tradition known as “berkutchi,” where raptors are used to hunt foxes and hares in the harsh mountain landscape. This photo series documents both the daily life and ceremonial moments of the hunters, capturing their deep bond with their eagles and the unique skills passed down through generations. Against the backdrop of the rugged steppe and snow-dusted peaks, the images reflect a culture rooted in survival, identity, and pride. As modern influences increasingly reshape the region, these photographs preserve a way of life that is fast disappearing but still resonates as a symbol of resilience and cultural heritage among the Kazakh minority in Mongolia. Photo by Laurin Strele/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Kazakh Eagle Hunters Preserve Ancient Tradition - Mongolia

Kazakh Eagle Hunters Preserve Ancient Tradition - Mongolia

Kazakh eagle hunters in the Altai Mountains of western Mongolia pose with their trained golden eagles during a photo session on October 26, 2023. Clad in traditional fur garments and perched on horseback, the hunters embody a centuries-old nomadic tradition known as “berkutchi,” where raptors are used to hunt foxes and hares in the harsh mountain landscape. This photo series documents both the daily life and ceremonial moments of the hunters, capturing their deep bond with their eagles and the unique skills passed down through generations. Against the backdrop of the rugged steppe and snow-dusted peaks, the images reflect a culture rooted in survival, identity, and pride. As modern influences increasingly reshape the region, these photographs preserve a way of life that is fast disappearing but still resonates as a symbol of resilience and cultural heritage among the Kazakh minority in Mongolia. Photo by Laurin Strele/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Kazakh Eagle Hunters Preserve Ancient Tradition - Mongolia

Kazakh Eagle Hunters Preserve Ancient Tradition - Mongolia

Kazakh eagle hunters in the Altai Mountains of western Mongolia pose with their trained golden eagles during a photo session on October 25, 2023. Clad in traditional fur garments and perched on horseback, the hunters embody a centuries-old nomadic tradition known as “berkutchi,” where raptors are used to hunt foxes and hares in the harsh mountain landscape. This photo series documents both the daily life and ceremonial moments of the hunters, capturing their deep bond with their eagles and the unique skills passed down through generations. Against the backdrop of the rugged steppe and snow-dusted peaks, the images reflect a culture rooted in survival, identity, and pride. As modern influences increasingly reshape the region, these photographs preserve a way of life that is fast disappearing but still resonates as a symbol of resilience and cultural heritage among the Kazakh minority in Mongolia. Photo by Laurin Strele/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Kazakh Eagle Hunters Preserve Ancient Tradition - Mongolia

Kazakh Eagle Hunters Preserve Ancient Tradition - Mongolia

Kazakh eagle hunters in the Altai Mountains of western Mongolia pose with their trained golden eagles during a photo session on October 25, 2023. Clad in traditional fur garments and perched on horseback, the hunters embody a centuries-old nomadic tradition known as “berkutchi,” where raptors are used to hunt foxes and hares in the harsh mountain landscape. This photo series documents both the daily life and ceremonial moments of the hunters, capturing their deep bond with their eagles and the unique skills passed down through generations. Against the backdrop of the rugged steppe and snow-dusted peaks, the images reflect a culture rooted in survival, identity, and pride. As modern influences increasingly reshape the region, these photographs preserve a way of life that is fast disappearing but still resonates as a symbol of resilience and cultural heritage among the Kazakh minority in Mongolia. Photo by Laurin Strele/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Kazakh Eagle Hunters Preserve Ancient Tradition - Mongolia

Kazakh Eagle Hunters Preserve Ancient Tradition - Mongolia

Kazakh eagle hunters in the Altai Mountains of western Mongolia pose with their trained golden eagles during a photo session on October 25, 2023. Clad in traditional fur garments and perched on horseback, the hunters embody a centuries-old nomadic tradition known as “berkutchi,” where raptors are used to hunt foxes and hares in the harsh mountain landscape. This photo series documents both the daily life and ceremonial moments of the hunters, capturing their deep bond with their eagles and the unique skills passed down through generations. Against the backdrop of the rugged steppe and snow-dusted peaks, the images reflect a culture rooted in survival, identity, and pride. As modern influences increasingly reshape the region, these photographs preserve a way of life that is fast disappearing but still resonates as a symbol of resilience and cultural heritage among the Kazakh minority in Mongolia. Photo by Laurin Strele/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Kazakh Eagle Hunters Preserve Ancient Tradition - Mongolia

Kazakh Eagle Hunters Preserve Ancient Tradition - Mongolia

Kazakh eagle hunters in the Altai Mountains of western Mongolia pose with their trained golden eagles during a photo session on October 25, 2023. Clad in traditional fur garments and perched on horseback, the hunters embody a centuries-old nomadic tradition known as “berkutchi,” where raptors are used to hunt foxes and hares in the harsh mountain landscape. This photo series documents both the daily life and ceremonial moments of the hunters, capturing their deep bond with their eagles and the unique skills passed down through generations. Against the backdrop of the rugged steppe and snow-dusted peaks, the images reflect a culture rooted in survival, identity, and pride. As modern influences increasingly reshape the region, these photographs preserve a way of life that is fast disappearing but still resonates as a symbol of resilience and cultural heritage among the Kazakh minority in Mongolia. Photo by Laurin Strele/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Kazakh Eagle Hunters Preserve Ancient Tradition - Mongolia

Kazakh Eagle Hunters Preserve Ancient Tradition - Mongolia

Kazakh eagle hunters in the Altai Mountains of western Mongolia pose with their trained golden eagles during a photo session on October 25, 2023. Clad in traditional fur garments and perched on horseback, the hunters embody a centuries-old nomadic tradition known as “berkutchi,” where raptors are used to hunt foxes and hares in the harsh mountain landscape. This photo series documents both the daily life and ceremonial moments of the hunters, capturing their deep bond with their eagles and the unique skills passed down through generations. Against the backdrop of the rugged steppe and snow-dusted peaks, the images reflect a culture rooted in survival, identity, and pride. As modern influences increasingly reshape the region, these photographs preserve a way of life that is fast disappearing but still resonates as a symbol of resilience and cultural heritage among the Kazakh minority in Mongolia. Photo by Laurin Strele/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Kazakh Eagle Hunters Preserve Ancient Tradition - Mongolia

Kazakh Eagle Hunters Preserve Ancient Tradition - Mongolia

Kazakh eagle hunters in the Altai Mountains of western Mongolia pose with their trained golden eagles during a photo session on October 26, 2023. Clad in traditional fur garments and perched on horseback, the hunters embody a centuries-old nomadic tradition known as “berkutchi,” where raptors are used to hunt foxes and hares in the harsh mountain landscape. This photo series documents both the daily life and ceremonial moments of the hunters, capturing their deep bond with their eagles and the unique skills passed down through generations. Against the backdrop of the rugged steppe and snow-dusted peaks, the images reflect a culture rooted in survival, identity, and pride. As modern influences increasingly reshape the region, these photographs preserve a way of life that is fast disappearing but still resonates as a symbol of resilience and cultural heritage among the Kazakh minority in Mongolia. Photo by Laurin Strele/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Kazakh Eagle Hunters Preserve Ancient Tradition - Mongolia

Kazakh Eagle Hunters Preserve Ancient Tradition - Mongolia

Kazakh eagle hunters in the Altai Mountains of western Mongolia pose with their trained golden eagles during a photo session on October 25, 2023. Clad in traditional fur garments and perched on horseback, the hunters embody a centuries-old nomadic tradition known as “berkutchi,” where raptors are used to hunt foxes and hares in the harsh mountain landscape. This photo series documents both the daily life and ceremonial moments of the hunters, capturing their deep bond with their eagles and the unique skills passed down through generations. Against the backdrop of the rugged steppe and snow-dusted peaks, the images reflect a culture rooted in survival, identity, and pride. As modern influences increasingly reshape the region, these photographs preserve a way of life that is fast disappearing but still resonates as a symbol of resilience and cultural heritage among the Kazakh minority in Mongolia. Photo by Laurin Strele/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Kazakh Eagle Hunters Preserve Ancient Tradition - Mongolia

Kazakh Eagle Hunters Preserve Ancient Tradition - Mongolia

Kazakh eagle hunters in the Altai Mountains of western Mongolia pose with their trained golden eagles during a photo session on October 27, 2023. Clad in traditional fur garments and perched on horseback, the hunters embody a centuries-old nomadic tradition known as “berkutchi,” where raptors are used to hunt foxes and hares in the harsh mountain landscape. This photo series documents both the daily life and ceremonial moments of the hunters, capturing their deep bond with their eagles and the unique skills passed down through generations. Against the backdrop of the rugged steppe and snow-dusted peaks, the images reflect a culture rooted in survival, identity, and pride. As modern influences increasingly reshape the region, these photographs preserve a way of life that is fast disappearing but still resonates as a symbol of resilience and cultural heritage among the Kazakh minority in Mongolia. Photo by Laurin Strele/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Kazakh Eagle Hunters Preserve Ancient Tradition - Mongolia

Kazakh Eagle Hunters Preserve Ancient Tradition - Mongolia

Kazakh eagle hunters in the Altai Mountains of western Mongolia pose with their trained golden eagles during a photo session on October 25, 2023. Clad in traditional fur garments and perched on horseback, the hunters embody a centuries-old nomadic tradition known as “berkutchi,” where raptors are used to hunt foxes and hares in the harsh mountain landscape. This photo series documents both the daily life and ceremonial moments of the hunters, capturing their deep bond with their eagles and the unique skills passed down through generations. Against the backdrop of the rugged steppe and snow-dusted peaks, the images reflect a culture rooted in survival, identity, and pride. As modern influences increasingly reshape the region, these photographs preserve a way of life that is fast disappearing but still resonates as a symbol of resilience and cultural heritage among the Kazakh minority in Mongolia. Photo by Laurin Strele/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Kazakh Eagle Hunters Preserve Ancient Tradition - Mongolia

Kazakh Eagle Hunters Preserve Ancient Tradition - Mongolia

Kazakh eagle hunters in the Altai Mountains of western Mongolia pose with their trained golden eagles during a photo session on October 24, 2023. Clad in traditional fur garments and perched on horseback, the hunters embody a centuries-old nomadic tradition known as “berkutchi,” where raptors are used to hunt foxes and hares in the harsh mountain landscape. This photo series documents both the daily life and ceremonial moments of the hunters, capturing their deep bond with their eagles and the unique skills passed down through generations. Against the backdrop of the rugged steppe and snow-dusted peaks, the images reflect a culture rooted in survival, identity, and pride. As modern influences increasingly reshape the region, these photographs preserve a way of life that is fast disappearing but still resonates as a symbol of resilience and cultural heritage among the Kazakh minority in Mongolia. Photo by Laurin Strele/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Kazakh Eagle Hunters Preserve Ancient Tradition - Mongolia

Kazakh Eagle Hunters Preserve Ancient Tradition - Mongolia

Kazakh eagle hunters in the Altai Mountains of western Mongolia pose with their trained golden eagles during a photo session on October 25, 2023. Clad in traditional fur garments and perched on horseback, the hunters embody a centuries-old nomadic tradition known as “berkutchi,” where raptors are used to hunt foxes and hares in the harsh mountain landscape. This photo series documents both the daily life and ceremonial moments of the hunters, capturing their deep bond with their eagles and the unique skills passed down through generations. Against the backdrop of the rugged steppe and snow-dusted peaks, the images reflect a culture rooted in survival, identity, and pride. As modern influences increasingly reshape the region, these photographs preserve a way of life that is fast disappearing but still resonates as a symbol of resilience and cultural heritage among the Kazakh minority in Mongolia. Photo by Laurin Strele/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Kazakh Eagle Hunters Preserve Ancient Tradition - Mongolia

Kazakh Eagle Hunters Preserve Ancient Tradition - Mongolia

Kazakh eagle hunters in the Altai Mountains of western Mongolia pose with their trained golden eagles during a photo session on October 25, 2023. Clad in traditional fur garments and perched on horseback, the hunters embody a centuries-old nomadic tradition known as “berkutchi,” where raptors are used to hunt foxes and hares in the harsh mountain landscape. This photo series documents both the daily life and ceremonial moments of the hunters, capturing their deep bond with their eagles and the unique skills passed down through generations. Against the backdrop of the rugged steppe and snow-dusted peaks, the images reflect a culture rooted in survival, identity, and pride. As modern influences increasingly reshape the region, these photographs preserve a way of life that is fast disappearing but still resonates as a symbol of resilience and cultural heritage among the Kazakh minority in Mongolia. Photo by Laurin Strele/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Kazakh Eagle Hunters Preserve Ancient Tradition - Mongolia

Kazakh Eagle Hunters Preserve Ancient Tradition - Mongolia

Kazakh eagle hunters in the Altai Mountains of western Mongolia pose with their trained golden eagles during a photo session on October 22, 2023. Clad in traditional fur garments and perched on horseback, the hunters embody a centuries-old nomadic tradition known as “berkutchi,” where raptors are used to hunt foxes and hares in the harsh mountain landscape. This photo series documents both the daily life and ceremonial moments of the hunters, capturing their deep bond with their eagles and the unique skills passed down through generations. Against the backdrop of the rugged steppe and snow-dusted peaks, the images reflect a culture rooted in survival, identity, and pride. As modern influences increasingly reshape the region, these photographs preserve a way of life that is fast disappearing but still resonates as a symbol of resilience and cultural heritage among the Kazakh minority in Mongolia. Photo by Laurin Strele/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Kazakh Eagle Hunters Preserve Ancient Tradition - Mongolia

Kazakh Eagle Hunters Preserve Ancient Tradition - Mongolia

Kazakh eagle hunters in the Altai Mountains of western Mongolia pose with their trained golden eagles during a photo session on November 05, 2023. Clad in traditional fur garments and perched on horseback, the hunters embody a centuries-old nomadic tradition known as “berkutchi,” where raptors are used to hunt foxes and hares in the harsh mountain landscape. This photo series documents both the daily life and ceremonial moments of the hunters, capturing their deep bond with their eagles and the unique skills passed down through generations. Against the backdrop of the rugged steppe and snow-dusted peaks, the images reflect a culture rooted in survival, identity, and pride. As modern influences increasingly reshape the region, these photographs preserve a way of life that is fast disappearing but still resonates as a symbol of resilience and cultural heritage among the Kazakh minority in Mongolia. Photo by Laurin Strele/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Kazakh Eagle Hunters Preserve Ancient Tradition - Mongolia

Kazakh Eagle Hunters Preserve Ancient Tradition - Mongolia

Kazakh eagle hunters in the Altai Mountains of western Mongolia pose with their trained golden eagles during a photo session on October 21, 2023. Clad in traditional fur garments and perched on horseback, the hunters embody a centuries-old nomadic tradition known as “berkutchi,” where raptors are used to hunt foxes and hares in the harsh mountain landscape. This photo series documents both the daily life and ceremonial moments of the hunters, capturing their deep bond with their eagles and the unique skills passed down through generations. Against the backdrop of the rugged steppe and snow-dusted peaks, the images reflect a culture rooted in survival, identity, and pride. As modern influences increasingly reshape the region, these photographs preserve a way of life that is fast disappearing but still resonates as a symbol of resilience and cultural heritage among the Kazakh minority in Mongolia. Photo by Laurin Strele/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Kazakh Eagle Hunters Preserve Ancient Tradition - Mongolia

Kazakh Eagle Hunters Preserve Ancient Tradition - Mongolia

Kazakh eagle hunters in the Altai Mountains of western Mongolia pose with their trained golden eagles during a photo session on October 26, 2023. Clad in traditional fur garments and perched on horseback, the hunters embody a centuries-old nomadic tradition known as “berkutchi,” where raptors are used to hunt foxes and hares in the harsh mountain landscape. This photo series documents both the daily life and ceremonial moments of the hunters, capturing their deep bond with their eagles and the unique skills passed down through generations. Against the backdrop of the rugged steppe and snow-dusted peaks, the images reflect a culture rooted in survival, identity, and pride. As modern influences increasingly reshape the region, these photographs preserve a way of life that is fast disappearing but still resonates as a symbol of resilience and cultural heritage among the Kazakh minority in Mongolia. Photo by Laurin Strele/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Kazakh Eagle Hunters Preserve Ancient Tradition - Mongolia

Kazakh Eagle Hunters Preserve Ancient Tradition - Mongolia

Kazakh eagle hunters in the Altai Mountains of western Mongolia pose with their trained golden eagles during a photo session on October 24, 2023. Clad in traditional fur garments and perched on horseback, the hunters embody a centuries-old nomadic tradition known as “berkutchi,” where raptors are used to hunt foxes and hares in the harsh mountain landscape. This photo series documents both the daily life and ceremonial moments of the hunters, capturing their deep bond with their eagles and the unique skills passed down through generations. Against the backdrop of the rugged steppe and snow-dusted peaks, the images reflect a culture rooted in survival, identity, and pride. As modern influences increasingly reshape the region, these photographs preserve a way of life that is fast disappearing but still resonates as a symbol of resilience and cultural heritage among the Kazakh minority in Mongolia. Photo by Laurin Strele/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Kazakh Eagle Hunters Preserve Ancient Tradition - Mongolia

Kazakh Eagle Hunters Preserve Ancient Tradition - Mongolia

Kazakh eagle hunters in the Altai Mountains of western Mongolia pose with their trained golden eagles during a photo session on October 24, 2023. Clad in traditional fur garments and perched on horseback, the hunters embody a centuries-old nomadic tradition known as “berkutchi,” where raptors are used to hunt foxes and hares in the harsh mountain landscape. This photo series documents both the daily life and ceremonial moments of the hunters, capturing their deep bond with their eagles and the unique skills passed down through generations. Against the backdrop of the rugged steppe and snow-dusted peaks, the images reflect a culture rooted in survival, identity, and pride. As modern influences increasingly reshape the region, these photographs preserve a way of life that is fast disappearing but still resonates as a symbol of resilience and cultural heritage among the Kazakh minority in Mongolia. Photo by Laurin Strele/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Kazakh Eagle Hunters Preserve Ancient Tradition - Mongolia

Kazakh Eagle Hunters Preserve Ancient Tradition - Mongolia

Kazakh eagle hunters in the Altai Mountains of western Mongolia pose with their trained golden eagles during a photo session on October 25, 2023. Clad in traditional fur garments and perched on horseback, the hunters embody a centuries-old nomadic tradition known as “berkutchi,” where raptors are used to hunt foxes and hares in the harsh mountain landscape. This photo series documents both the daily life and ceremonial moments of the hunters, capturing their deep bond with their eagles and the unique skills passed down through generations. Against the backdrop of the rugged steppe and snow-dusted peaks, the images reflect a culture rooted in survival, identity, and pride. As modern influences increasingly reshape the region, these photographs preserve a way of life that is fast disappearing but still resonates as a symbol of resilience and cultural heritage among the Kazakh minority in Mongolia. Photo by Laurin Strele/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Kazakh Eagle Hunters Preserve Ancient Tradition - Mongolia

Kazakh Eagle Hunters Preserve Ancient Tradition - Mongolia

Kazakh eagle hunters in the Altai Mountains of western Mongolia pose with their trained golden eagles during a photo session on October 26, 2023. Clad in traditional fur garments and perched on horseback, the hunters embody a centuries-old nomadic tradition known as “berkutchi,” where raptors are used to hunt foxes and hares in the harsh mountain landscape. This photo series documents both the daily life and ceremonial moments of the hunters, capturing their deep bond with their eagles and the unique skills passed down through generations. Against the backdrop of the rugged steppe and snow-dusted peaks, the images reflect a culture rooted in survival, identity, and pride. As modern influences increasingly reshape the region, these photographs preserve a way of life that is fast disappearing but still resonates as a symbol of resilience and cultural heritage among the Kazakh minority in Mongolia. Photo by Laurin Strele/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Kazakh Eagle Hunters Preserve Ancient Tradition - Mongolia

Kazakh Eagle Hunters Preserve Ancient Tradition - Mongolia

Kazakh eagle hunters in the Altai Mountains of western Mongolia pose with their trained golden eagles during a photo session on October 26, 2023. Clad in traditional fur garments and perched on horseback, the hunters embody a centuries-old nomadic tradition known as “berkutchi,” where raptors are used to hunt foxes and hares in the harsh mountain landscape. This photo series documents both the daily life and ceremonial moments of the hunters, capturing their deep bond with their eagles and the unique skills passed down through generations. Against the backdrop of the rugged steppe and snow-dusted peaks, the images reflect a culture rooted in survival, identity, and pride. As modern influences increasingly reshape the region, these photographs preserve a way of life that is fast disappearing but still resonates as a symbol of resilience and cultural heritage among the Kazakh minority in Mongolia. Photo by Laurin Strele/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Kazakh Eagle Hunters Preserve Ancient Tradition - Mongolia

Kazakh Eagle Hunters Preserve Ancient Tradition - Mongolia

Kazakh eagle hunters in the Altai Mountains of western Mongolia pose with their trained golden eagles during a photo session on October 25, 2023. Clad in traditional fur garments and perched on horseback, the hunters embody a centuries-old nomadic tradition known as “berkutchi,” where raptors are used to hunt foxes and hares in the harsh mountain landscape. This photo series documents both the daily life and ceremonial moments of the hunters, capturing their deep bond with their eagles and the unique skills passed down through generations. Against the backdrop of the rugged steppe and snow-dusted peaks, the images reflect a culture rooted in survival, identity, and pride. As modern influences increasingly reshape the region, these photographs preserve a way of life that is fast disappearing but still resonates as a symbol of resilience and cultural heritage among the Kazakh minority in Mongolia. Photo by Laurin Strele/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM

Kazakh Eagle Hunters Preserve Ancient Tradition - Mongolia

Kazakh Eagle Hunters Preserve Ancient Tradition - Mongolia

Kazakh eagle hunters in the Altai Mountains of western Mongolia pose with their trained golden eagles during a photo session on October 26, 2023. Clad in traditional fur garments and perched on horseback, the hunters embody a centuries-old nomadic tradition known as “berkutchi,” where raptors are used to hunt foxes and hares in the harsh mountain landscape. This photo series documents both the daily life and ceremonial moments of the hunters, capturing their deep bond with their eagles and the unique skills passed down through generations. Against the backdrop of the rugged steppe and snow-dusted peaks, the images reflect a culture rooted in survival, identity, and pride. As modern influences increasingly reshape the region, these photographs preserve a way of life that is fast disappearing but still resonates as a symbol of resilience and cultural heritage among the Kazakh minority in Mongolia. Photo by Laurin Strele/Middle East Images/ABACAPRESS.COM