What is yumi bow?

The yumi bow is a traditional Japanese bow that has been used for centuries in traditional Japanese archery, known as kyudo. Yumi bows are typically made from bamboo and are very long, measuring over six feet in length.

The yumi bow is characterized by its unique asymmetric shape, with the top limb (monouchi) being significantly shorter than the bottom limb (daisan). This design allows the bow to flex uniformly when drawn, providing greater stability and accuracy when shooting.

Yumi bows are typically used with a special type of arrow called a ya, which is also made of bamboo. The technique used in kyudo is focused on mindfulness and precision, with practitioners striving for a perfect balance of mind, body, and technique.

Although kyudo is practiced primarily as a spiritual and meditative discipline in modern times, yumi bows were historically used in warfare by samurai warriors. Today, the yumi bow remains an important symbol of Japanese culture and tradition.