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Japanese Yumi Bow

Type Object Region Japan Time 1171–1180

The Japanese yumi was the core ranged weapon of late-Heian samurai groups, noted for its long asymmetric form, bamboo-wood laminate construction, and…

Timeline

  1. c. 1171–1175Around Heian-kyō · KinkiIn the late Heian period, the samurai class grew increasingly militarized in estate protection and court political struggles. The yumi, as the primary ranged weapon, together with the tachi and armor, formed the standard samurai equipment; noble samurai practiced archery from childhood, and shooting from horseback was an important measure of martial valor.
  2. c. 1175–1180Estates across Japan · JapanMinamoto and Taira samurai groups were frequently mobilized in local estate conflicts and struggles for court power. The yumi was used for pre-emptive shooting and suppression in mounted charges and set-piece battles; the asymmetric longbow design allowed drawing from the lower side while on horseback, making it an iconic weapon of samurai tactical culture.

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