Hoko yari is an ancient form of Japanesespear oryari said to be based on a Chinese spear.[1] The hoko yari came into use sometime between theYayoi period and theHeian period,[2] possibly during theNara period in the 8th century AD.[3]
Thehoko yari was thought to be a guard's spear used in the defense of palisades and gates. One source describeshoko yari as being mounted on a two meter pole and with an 20 cm blade, either in a leaf shape or with a wavy edge similar to the Malaykris. Like the later-periodfukuro yari, the metal blade had a hollow socket for the pole to fit into, rather than a long tang.[4]Hoko yari could also have a sickle-shaped horn projecting out and slightly forward on one or both sides of the blade, indicating that this weapon was primarily used to thrust back an enemy.[1]
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