During our recent visit to Japan, we had the opportunity to admire the history of samurai armour up close at the Tokyo National Museum. These are impressive and beautiful pieces that reflect the skill of the craftsmen of that time and show the evolution of combat tactics as well as the needs of warriors.
From samurai armor to modern protection
Among these samurai armors we find mentions of the haramaki as a key piece for its functionality and symbolism.
"This armor was commissioned by an elite samurai in the Muromachi period (1392–1573). It represents a design called haramaki "belly wrap," favored for its light weight and close fit." Arms and Armor of the Samurai | 12th–19th century .
A bit of history
Over the centuries, changes in weapons and combat tactics spurred the development of new types of samurai armor. Japanese warriors wore armor that allowed them to move with agility, without sacrificing safety in battle. Armor evolved to accommodate these needs, and we learned that among the most notable were four main types:
- Yoroi or oyoroi (large armor) : This heavy armor was designed for mounted archery, one of the primary forms of combat for early samurai. It provided sturdy and effective cover while allowing the archer to maintain balance on the mount.
- Domaru (torso wrap) : This was lighter and was created to facilitate movement in combat on foot. It was tied at the side, allowing mobility without compromising the warrior's protection.
- Haramaki (belly wrap ): This was a light armor, but unlike the previous one, it was tied at the back with a silk ribbon (both a decorative and functional element) that kept the armor together and flexible at the same time. The haramaki provided crucial protection to the abdomen without limiting freedom of movement.
- Gusoku or tösei gusoku (fully equipped contemporary armour) : This armour was very complete and offered full protection against modern weapons of the time, such as spears and muskets, and marked the final development in the evolution of samurai armour.
Beyond physical protection
Both the dō-maru and the haramaki were essential components of samurai armour because they protected the warrior's torso. But we were struck by the fact that, beyond their defensive function, both pieces of armour were loaded with symbolism.
The dō-maru was a plate armour covering the torso and back, adorned with details that symbolised the social position and military status of the samurai. The armour plates, held together by cords, offered a certain flexibility and reflected the craftsmanship of the maker. Only the wealthiest samurai could afford armour of such high quality, making the dō-maru a visible sign of power and wealth.
On the other hand, the haramaki, the belt that wrapped around the samurai's abdomen, was not only a vital piece for protection in combat but also had a deep symbolic value. The haramaki was associated with the warrior's strength and courage . Let us remember that the hara is the center of vital energy in Japanese tradition. It was therefore believed that this garment not only protected physically, but also had mystical properties that protected the samurai from internal damage and strengthened him spiritually .
The current haramaki
Obviously, the function of the haramaki has evolved over the centuries, but its essence remains the same: to provide protection, comfort and well-being. Today, the haramaki is a very useful garment that protects us from the cold, shelters, transmits security and maintains constant body heat, promoting the proper functioning of internal organs.
Discover our modern collection of Happy Belly haramakis where tradition and comfort come together to offer you a unique garment.
Sources: Tokyo National Museum and website: Way of the samurai
Header image Genpei Battle Figure Folding Screen by Motonobu Denkinobu (伝狩野元信) Collection of Akama Jingu
