What is Kikuchi Yari in Japanese Katana terminology?

"""Kikuchi Yari"" (菊池槍) refers to a type of straight, single-edged spear that resembles a short sword attached to the end of a handle. The shaft (Nakago) of the spear is short, which provided the convenience of not having to carry a long handle, as it could be attached to bamboo or similar materials on-site.

The origin of the ""Kikuchi Yari"" is said to date back to the Nanboku-cho period. During the Battle of Chikugo River, the Kikuchi clan, who were at a disadvantage, improvised by tying short swords to the ends of bamboo and using them as spears for group combat. This practical and adaptable weapon design is a testament to the resourcefulness and resilience of the Kikuchi clan during this challenging period in their history."