The Nodowa (Japanese: 喉輪) is a part of the Japanese Samurai armor (Yoroi).
The Nodowa is a neck protection that consists of metal, leather, fabric, and silk. It consists of several plates that are mounted on a base of fabric or leather. Often the plates are attached to a padded collar that sits directly on the neck once it is fit. There are various versions which also differ in their type of closure:
- Nodowa: The collar can be tied at the nape of the neck. There is also a version called Kusari-Nodowa in which the outside is armored with chain armor instead of plates.
- Meguriwa: These resemble a collar. They are made of leather or metal, are wide, and become narrower at the ends. They are placed directly on the neck when the armor is worn. The closure of these collars is similar to a belt buckle.
- Eriwa: Also similar to a collar. It is closed with hooks at the nape of the neck.
- Manjuwa: Attached to the lower end of the Menpo.
The successful use is confirmed in a report about the Battle at Konodai, Shimoza Province, in the year 1564.