Shuriken

The term shuriken (手裏剣) refers to a concealed weapon used in feudal Japan. It is often translated as "dagger hidden in the hand." Shuriken are typically constructed from sharpened metal and designed for throwing, though they could also be used for stabbing or slashing at close range.

There are two main types of shuriken: bō shuriken (棒手裏剣), which are straight, spike-shaped projectiles; and hira shuriken (平手裏剣), also known as shaken (車剣), which are flat, multi-pointed throwing stars or discs.

Bō Shuriken: These are typically made of a single piece of metal, ranging in length and thickness. They could be square, round, or octagonal in cross-section. The techniques for throwing bō shuriken varied, with some schools emphasizing direct, overhand throws and others focusing on spinning throws.

Hira Shuriken: These are characterized by their flat, bladed shapes with multiple points or edges. Designs varied greatly, from simple four-pointed stars to complex, intricately cut discs. The number of points, the size, and the overall design were often specific to particular schools or styles of martial arts.

Shuriken were typically not intended as primary weapons but rather as supplementary tools used to distract, disorient, or wound an opponent, creating an opening for a more decisive attack. They were also used for stealth and ambush situations.

The use of shuriken was often integrated into the martial art curriculum of various Japanese ryū (schools or traditions). Different schools developed their own unique designs, throwing techniques, and philosophies regarding the use of these weapons.

While often romanticized in popular culture, shuriken were practical tools that required significant training and skill to use effectively. Their effectiveness depended on factors such as distance, target, and the skill of the thrower.