Japanese soldiers commonly yelled "Banzai!" (万歳), a powerful and iconic cry meaning "long live" or "hooray," especially when expressing loyalty to the Emperor or during a charge. Beyond this widely recognized shout, they also used various commands and battle cries depending on the situation.
The Significance of "Banzai"
The yell "Banzai" was not merely a cheer; it was a profound expression of loyalty, determination, and spiritual resolve.
- Meaning and Origin: Literally translating to "ten thousand years," "Banzai" is an acclamation for longevity and prosperity, similar to "long live [the King/Emperor]" or "hurrah."
- Honoring the Emperor: As a fundamental aspect of their military code and national identity, Japanese soldiers would shout "Banzai!" to honor the Emperor. For example, during the Second Sino-Japanese War, this shout was a common feature of their resolve and commitment, often preceding a charge. This specific cry, sometimes expanded to Tenno Heika Banzai! (天皇陛下万歳 - "Long live His Majesty the Emperor!"), underscored their unwavering devotion.
- The Banzai Charge: The term Banzai charge became synonymous with fierce, often suicidal, human wave attacks carried out by Japanese infantry. These charges, characterized by the thunderous shouts of "Banzai," were intended to overwhelm enemy lines through sheer force of will and numbers, even in desperate situations.
Other Common Yells and Commands
While "Banzai" is the most famous, Japanese soldiers used a range of other commands and shouts during combat and training:
| Yell/Phrase | Romanization | Meaning | Context |
|---|---|---|---|
| 万歳 | Banzai | Long live! / Hooray! | Battle cry, cheer, salute to the Emperor |
| 突撃 | Totsugeki | Charge! / Assault! | Command for an attack or bayonet charge |
| 天皇陛下万歳 | Tenno Heika Banzai | Long live His Majesty the Emperor! | Formal salute, expression of ultimate loyalty |
| よし！ | Yoshi! | Alright! / Okay! / Good! | Expressing readiness, approval, or determination |
| やるぞ！ | Yaruzo! | Let's do it! / I'll do it! | Declaration of intent, motivation |
| 止まれ！ | Tomare! | Stop! | Basic command to halt movement |
| 前へ！ | Mae e! | Forward! / Go ahead! | Command to advance |
These phrases reflect the disciplined, yet fiercely determined, nature of the Imperial Japanese Army. The combination of formal salutes, direct commands, and spirited battle cries painted a vivid picture of their combat ethos.
