Armor knowledge

From Battlefields to Artistry: Exploring Samurai Sode and Its Cultural Significance “Sode” (袖) are the armored shoulder guards of traditional Japanese samurai armor, attached to the cuirass and covering the upper arms. They come in various styles and lengths, with articulated plates for flexibility. Along with the helmet (kabuto), cuirass (dō), and leg guards (haidate and suneate), they form the “yoroi” or “gusoku” armor system,...

From Practicality to Artistry -- A Deep Dive into the Many Faces of Samurai Menpo Menpo 面頬 refers to protective gear designed to guard the face. Menpo was born in the late Heian period, and since then, various types have been created depending on the parts of the face to be protected and their uses. From the Muromachi period onwards, Menpo was used not...

Samurai Armor is a brilliantly conceived and intricately crafted functional work of art. The armor was not just a protective gear, but also a visual statement about the Samurai within. It was designed to psychologically intimidate an enemy while simultaneously emboldening the warrior who wore it. Trying to understand deeply about samurai armor could be a difficult task if you don't speak Japanese. This Samurai armor glossary provides...

In the Japanese, “Kabuto” means “helmet”. This important component of Samurai armor was designed to protect the head in combat. However, the Kabuto’s significance extends beyond its practical use, as it also embodies substantial cultural and symbolic value. This article will introduce what kabuto is, the different parts on a Kabuto, and different types of Kabuto.  This article is focusing on Kabuto on Yoroi,...

Samurai armor, a remarkable feat of military engineering, is a testimony of the ingenuity and skill of ancient Japanese craftsmen. This armor, worn by the samurai warriors of feudal Japan, was not only a protective gear in battle but also a status symbol, reflecting the strength and value of the wearer.Understanding the parts of samurai armor is important for several reasons. Firstly, each component...