May in Japan starts with so-called Golden week,

a holiday week which starts from the end of April.

May 5th used to be known as ‘Boys’ Day’,

but now it is renamed ‘Children’s Day’ (Kodomo-no-hi),

which is enjoyed by all as a national holiday as part of ‘Golden Week’.

The children are wished happiness and growth.

Traditionally miniature armors are displayed to symbolize the bravery of samurai warriors.

The Japanese armors were designed to be as light and flexible as possible by sewing pieces

of hardened material together with important sections

made from iron plates. They were usually brightly lacquered to protect against the harsh

and humid Japanese climate.

The basic design of Japanese armors remained in use unchanged from the 11th century to the 16th century

when Japan had contact with Europeans.

The armors of Europe were developed into full protection against heavy weapons

which were unknown to Japan.

As a result, they were expensively heavy full-plate armors.

As to why their designs were so different. First, Japan was isolated,

while the Europe was in a constant struggle within Europe and outside.

Secondly, Japan had no good sources of iron ore and instead had to rely on iron sands.

The armors in the West were evolved with the advanced metallurgy.

Whatever they were made of, the armors in West and Japan served each purpose on the battlefield.