also: てんまぶね
noun
large sculling boat; temba-bune
Historical term for a type of large Japanese boat propelled by sculling (rowing with a single oar at the stern). Used primarily in pre-modern contexts.
江戸時代、伝馬船は物資の輸送に使われた。
In the Edo period, temba-bune were used to transport goods.
資料館に伝馬船の模型が展示されている。
A model of a temba-bune is on display at the museum.
和船 is a general term for traditional Japanese boats, while 伝馬船 refers specifically to a large sculling boat used for transport.
Compound of 伝馬 (relay horse, courier) and 船 (boat). The name likely derives from its use in transporting goods or messages along relay routes, analogous to the relay horse system.