They are long, narrow flags, attached to a pole with a cross-rod to hold the fabric straight out and prevent it from furling around the rod; this way, the field is always visible and identifiable.
Nobori of the time were used to denote units within an army; they became much more common in the Sengoku period and were used alongside the earlier hata-jirushi.
Though usually used to represent different divisions within an army, nobori were sometimes made identical, so as to produce an impressive and intimidating display of warrior flags.
Shinto shrines or Buddhist temples may line walkways, fences or walls with nobori, frequently bearing the names of donors or deceased parishioners.
In recent years, nobori influenced flags are gaining popularity around the world.