Yumi
The yumi (弓) was a type of longbow that was used by the samurai for ceremonial, hunting, and sport events, but also extensively during the feudal periods.
There were 2 types of yumi. The regular size was called daikyū (大弓), and the shorter sized one was hankyū (半弓).
Introduction: What is a Yumi?
The word “yumi” has been used to describe the bow and arrow for over 3,000 years. Originally used in Japan, yumi became a major weapon in military history after it was imported into China.
The yumi is an ancient Japanese weapon that consisted of a wooden bow mounted on an armed guard called a “tsuka.” The tsuka was designed to provide a better grip on the bow with its recurved shape while protecting the user’s hand from recoil.
Different Types of Yumi in Japan
The type of Yumi corresponds to the shape of the bow and the way it is drawn.
Longbow: A longbow is drawn by pulling back on a handle attached to a string stretched tight over a set of curved hooks called “fingers”. The string then curves forward and attaches to the bow at a point that can be drawn further away from the archer than would be possible with a short bow.
Shortbow: A short bow is drawn by pulling back on one end of the string, which also pushes an arrow into position for shooting.
Self-Bow: A self-bow is made from one material that has been shaped into both ends, including arrow rest, handle, and stringing groove.
Yumi Weapons in Japans History
Yumi is a Japanese bow. The history of these bows dates back to the late 12th century when Emperor Kameyama introduced the bow and arrow to Japan. There are many different types of arrows used in Japan’s history. The most famous is the Yabusame arrow that is used in traditional archery ceremonies.
Differences Between Eastern and Western Bows
The Western bow is a composite bow, usually made of wood, glass, or fiberglass. The Eastern bow, on the other hand, is made of bamboo and sinew.
The Western bow is fairly simple and consists of a small wooden core and a layer of horn on the back. Eastern bows are more complicated in that they have two pieces: the upper limb and the lower limb. They are then glued together with animal glue or wax to keep them in place.
Glimpses of Yumi Weapons in Modern Culture
Yumi is the Japanese word for traditional bow and is used in anime culture to refer to bows with a recurve shape. The Yumi has become a symbol of beauty, power, and elegance in modern society. It was defiantly the Samurai’s preferred long-distance weapon and still survives ritually today.
Recent movies like Lucy and Ghost in the Shell have featured this weapon with one of their leading female characters using it. There are even toys available for sale.
