Samurai katana

The naginata (薙刀)

The naginata (薙刀) is a Japanese bladed weapon, akin to the curved-bladed sickle. This weapon, particularly appreciated by monks (the Sorei, mountain priests, in the VIIᵗʰ century) could reach two meters in length. It was used on the battlefield to cut horses' hocks. It is also effective in mid-distance combat against a warrior on foot. The art of fighting with the naginata is naginatajutsu (薙刀術).

The appearance of the naginata dates back to the troubles of the Tengyō era (938-947). Longer than a sword, it allows you to engage in combat from a greater distance than a katana. The naginata is similar to a sword with a longer handle.

The naginata disappeared as a weapon of war when firearms were introduced. In the XVᵗʰ century, women from warrior families trained with a naginata to defend their homes. The weapon was embellished and became an integral part of a young girl's dowry. The image of the warrior woman dates from this period.