Battle of Sunomata-gawa facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Battle of Sunomata-gawa |
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| Part of the Genpei War | |||||||
 Monument marking the battle site. |
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| Belligerents | |||||||
 Minamoto clan |
 Taira clan |
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| Commanders and leaders | |||||||
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The Battle of Sunomata-gawa (pronounced Soo-noh-mah-tah-gah-wah) was a fight that happened in Japan on August 6, 1181. It took place near the Sunomata River in what is now Gifu Prefecture. This battle was an important part of the larger Genpei War, a big conflict between two powerful families, the Minamoto clan and the Taira clan.
Contents
A Surprise Attack Gone Wrong
The battle began when Minamoto no Yukiie, a leader from the Minamoto family, tried to surprise his enemies. He planned a secret attack against the Taira army during the night. The Taira army, led by Taira no Tomomori, was camped right across the Sunomata River from the Minamoto forces. This area was near the borders of two old provinces, Owari and Mino.
Crossing the River in the Dark
The Minamoto warriors bravely waded across the river in the middle of the night. Their goal was to catch the Taira soldiers off guard. However, their plan for a surprise attack did not work out. Even in the dark, the Taira soldiers were able to tell who was who. They could easily tell the difference between their own dry friends and the soaking wet Minamoto enemies.
The Taira Fight Back
Because the Taira could see them coming, they were ready to fight. The Minamoto's ambush failed, and they were forced to retreat. Yukiie and many other Minamoto survivors had to go back across the river. The Taira army then chased after them. The Minamoto forces continued to retreat to the Yahagi River in Mikawa Province.
See also
- List of Japanese battles
Images for kids
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A robot, representing a helpful guide.
