Yari
The straight-bladed Japanese spear
The yari is Japan's straight-bladed spear, the primary battlefield weapon of the Sengoku period (1467-1615). Multiple variants exist based on blade shape: su-yari (straight single blade), jumonji-yari (cross-shaped lateral blades), and kama-yari (sickle-shaped lateral blades). With blade lengths of 15-90cm and total lengths of 250-650cm, it was used en masse by ashigaru (foot soldier) infantry. Massed ashigaru yari formations, rather than individual samurai swordsmanship, decided Sengoku-era battles, as demonstrated at Oda Nobunaga's Battle of Nagashino (1575).
Origin
Emerged in the late Kamakura period (1185-1333) and reached its peak during the Sengoku period. Rose to prominence as collective infantry warfare became more decisive than individual martial prowess.
Features
- Straight double-edged blade — distinctive Japanese spear
- Multiple variants: su-yari, jumonji-yari, kama-yari
- Blade length 15-90cm, total length 250-650cm
- Primary weapon of ashigaru infantry
- Battle-deciding weapon of the Sengoku period
- Lacquered shaft with saya (blade cover)
Usage
Ashigaru infantry thrust yari in dense formations to block enemy advances or pull mounted warriors from their horses. Played a decisive role in large-scale Sengoku-era battles.
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