Mid-19th century documents indicate that the production of Miyakonojo bows was already a thriving local craft at the time. By the end of the century, a number of bowmakers had been instructed in the craft by two generations of the Kusumi family, who resided in the area. Blessed with an abundant local supply of raw materials, the craft continued to develop, and by the 1920s, bows were being sold across East Asia.
Although demand fell after World War II, at the height of production nearly three dozen bowmakers were active in the area. Miyakonojo is now the country's only production center for bows, accounting for 90% of all bamboo bows produced globally

All Miyakonojo bamboo bows have seven joints on the outward side and six on the inner side. Although the shape may differ according to the bowmaker, a good bow is one that has a perfect balance between its upper and lower portions, with due consideration given to the center of gravity and distribution of weight after the arrow has been shot.