Definition & Meaning of "yumi"in English

What is a "yumi"?

A yumi is a traditional Japanese bow used in archery, particularly in the practice of kyudo, a martial art centered around archery. It is characterized by its asymmetrical design, with the top portion being longer than the bottom, which allows for a more powerful shot. The yumi is typically made of bamboo, wood, or a combination of materials, and it is much taller than typical western bows, often reaching about the height of the archer. This distinctive design allows for a unique shooting style and provides a long, smooth draw when shooting arrows.