Samurai Arms, Armour and the Tactics of Warfare

The Collected Scrolls of Natori-Ryū.

This book is part of the unique Book of Samurai series that comprises the works of 17th-century samurai tactician Natori Sanjūrō Masazumi, retainer and advisor to the lords of Kishū domain. It offers an unparalleled insight into the weaponry and armour of the samurai era, as well as tactical advice for use on the battlefield and off – wisdom that can be applied to many scenarios today. Heieki Yōhō, the first scroll translated in this book, offers advice for every possible situation, from moving troops to besieging a castle to fighting on the open battlefield. From turning thieves or cowards to good service, to practising “external listening” in order to obtain information from as many sources as possible, to penetrating the deeper motives of those who slander (or praise) others, the advice here is thought provoking and paints a vivid picture of samurai Japan at war. Heigu Yōhō, the second scroll, gives us a rare and precious glimpse into samurai arms and armour, including their construction, status regulations and connected ceremonies, mythology and Buddhist doctrine: a helmet’s ventilation hole, for example, allows access to the 98,000 gods of war. There is an accessible introduction and a glossary, as well as 130 line drawings that include illustrations of arms and armour, strategic diagrams and beautiful examples of Japanese calligraphy.