The atakebune was the largest class of Japanese warship of the 16th and early 17th centuries, a heavily armored floating fortress used as a flagship, though it was gradually abandoned in favor of more Chinese-influenced designs after Japan’s unification.
Quick Facts
| Ship Class | Warship |
|---|---|
| Era Used | Sengoku-early Edo period, 16th-17th century |
| Typical Crew | 80-200 |
| Guns / Cannons | cannon, matchlock guns, archers |
| Speed / Handling | Slow, heavily built floating fortress |
| Notable Use | Flagship-class vessel of major Japanese naval commanders |
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