During the Warring States period, the Nanbu Hachinohe Clan ruled the area from southern Aomori to northern Iwate. The Koma Odori dance is said to be a dance that depicts the scene of going into battle, and cavalry battles at that time. It is also said that the dance was performed to comfort the spirits of horses and ancestors who died in battle, as well as to ensure the safety of the horses, which always supported the people as war and farm horses.
　Since 1978, the dance has also been performed by children at local elementary and junior high school athletic meets and cultural festivals to pass on the geinoh and to promote their physical fitness and growth.
　There are 14 types of dances: 7 dances performed with horse-like costumes, and 7 stick dances performed with poles, swords, and long swords.