arms(hoko)
A weapon with a double-edged sword attached to the end of a long handle. It is used by thrusting, and is said to be the predecessor of the spear and naginata. In Japan, it was used from ancient times to the end of the Heian period (794-1185). The name of the spear is mentioned in the Kojiki (Record of Ancient Matters) and Nihonshoki (Chronicles of Japan), and cultural artifacts such as a Yayoi period bronze spear and an Asuka period spear with hooks still exist today. The bronze halberd was used not only as a weapon, but also as a tool in religious ceremonies as it possessed magical powers.
